Amazon Web Services (AWS) has launched two AWS Global Accelerator programs to help startups tackle some of the world's most pressing challenges while building successful cloud-based businesses.
AWS is accepting applications from startups for both programs. Ten startups will be selected to participate in each of the following programs:
- AWS Space Accelerator, that helps startups using the cloud to reimagine commercial and government space missions
- AWS Sustainable Cities Accelerator, which supports startups creating mobility and transportation solutions to increase the sustainability of fast-growing urban centers
Startups play an important role in driving innovations that improve lives and address issues facing societies, governments and industries. For over 15 years, AWS has empowered startups to tackle big challenges and build enduring companies with far-reaching impact. The AWS Startups team is made up of former founders, venture capitalists, technologists, product leaders, and experts who support startups every day in different ways, including through accelerator programs like these that support and drive innovation in specific areas. Programs launched today build on successful AWS accelerators in 2021 to space and clean energy.
While each four-week program is designed for a specific group and challenge, participants generally gain access to support, guidance and key benefits such as:
- Up to US＄ 100,000 in credits from AWS Activate for use in cloud infrastructure and advanced services
- Opportunities for Collaboration with AWS Customers and Members of the AWS Partner Network (APN)
- Marketing and go-to-market support
- AWS expert training and guidance from domain and technical subject matter experts
- Guidance on business development and fundraising from AWS contributors and the accelerator program
- Opportunity to interact with other startups that are facing similar challenges
Subscriptions for the AWS Space Accelerator and AWS Sustainable Cities Accelerator programs are open until April 15.
AWS Space Accelerator
Exactly 75 years ago this month, a camera aboard a V-22 rocket sent the first photograph captured just above the Karman Line, the official boundary between Earth's atmosphere and outer space. Today, advances in engineering are helping to transport human technology far beyond the atmosphere. As the rapid pace of innovation continues across the global aerospace industry, much of that innovation will continue to come from startups.
That's why we're releasing the next AWS Space Accelerator in collaboration with AlchemistX. The program is open to space startups from around the world with innovative ideas for using the cloud to reimagine solutions for government and commercial space missions.
AWS Space Accelerator 2022 builds on the success of 2021 participating startups, which showcased an incredible array of solutions related to Earth observation, robotics, space vehicle launch and delivery, space vehicle hardware and software, satellite operations, human space travel, and launch operations.
“This program has opened our team's eyes to all the opportunities and challenges in the emerging space market,” said Adam Kaplan, CEO of Edgybees.
AWS Sustainable Cities Accelerator
Cities occupy only 3% of the Earth's surface, but account for 75% of carbon emissions. With the urban population expected to grow from 4 to 6 billion people by 2045, developing sustainable cities is a critical part of the fight against climate change.
The AWS Sustainable Cities Accelerator, launched in collaboration with Freshwater Advisors and the Public Spend Forum, focuses on a specific and critical part of the equation: mobility and transportation. AWS is looking for mature cleantech startups around the world that are working on micromobility, last mile delivery, urban parking and route optimization, infrastructure and applications for charging electric vehicles, Internet of Things (IoT) transport and traffic optimization, or other solutions to promote sustainable transport and mobility in urban environments.
The goal is to help these startups learn how to innovate and accelerate their growth through advanced cloud-based technologies. This is the second sustainability-focused accelerator program, with last year's AWS Clean Energy Accelerator having resulted in several commercial pilot deployments for participating startups.
“The AWS Clean Energy Accelerator was a comprehensive program that taught me about all aspects of our business — go-to-market strategy, policy and regulation, funding resources, and more,” said James Larson, CEO of E-Zinc. “I also developed some fantastic relationships during the show and am truly grateful for the connections I made.”
