AWS Begins Accepting Applications for 'Generative AI Accelerator' Startups

Up to $1 Million in Credits Available

Amazon Web Services (AWS) announced on June 11 that it has begun accepting applications for the third round of the 'AWS Generative AI Accelerator (GAIA),' a global program designed to support the growth of startups.

The AWS Generative AI Accelerator is an eight-week program targeted at early-stage startups developing core generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The program includes in-person sessions at AWS headquarters in Seattle, United States, as well as a variety of online training opportunities.

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With the widespread adoption of generative AI tools, AWS is focusing this year’s program on supporting startups that are developing core AI technologies such as model building, infrastructure, fine-tuning tools, and agent-based workflows. Selected startups will receive up to $1 million in AWS credits, as well as technical guidance and mentoring, go-to-market support, and opportunities to leverage the AWS generative AI technology stack.

Participating companies must have a minimum viable product that is operational, as well as a team with proven technical expertise and experience in acquiring a certain level of customers. AWS encourages participation from startups developing large language models (LLMs), infrastructure tooling, fine-tuning platforms, and foundational agent technologies. While prior AWS usage is not a mandatory requirement, startups already using AWS can receive practical support such as architecture design and marketplace entry.

This year’s program will begin on October 13 at Amazon’s headquarters in Seattle, United States, with 40 startups from around the world expected to be selected. Applications are being accepted from June 10 to July 10, and the final selection results will be announced on September 24.

Jon Jones, Vice President and Global Head of AWS Startups, stated, "Nearly every startup is now applying generative AI to their business in various ways," adding, "This year’s accelerator program will focus on supporting startups developing the foundational technologies of generative AI, providing them with essential resources such as credits, mentoring, and market exposure so they can scale confidently."

For this year’s recruitment, AWS plans to select startups from a variety of regions, reflecting global inclusion principles. The program will also offer tailored mentoring and support for companies developing foundational models, infrastructure providers, and innovators in the application layer.