Amazon Web Services Inc. (AWS), the cloud arm of Amazon.com, Inc., is now accepting applications for the 2025 AWS Generative AI Accelerator (GAIA), a global eight-week program that helps early-stage startups working on generative AI technologies.
Set to begin on Oct. 13, 2025, at Amazon’s headquarters in Seattle, the program will select 40 startups from around the world. Applications are open from June 10 to July 10, with selected participants to be announced on Sept. 24, 2025.
The program is designed for companies building core generative AI tools, such as models, infrastructure, fine-tuning platforms, and agent-based systems. AWS will offer up to $1 million in cloud credits along with technical guidance, mentorship, and go-to-market support.
“This year’s program is part of our continued commitment to accelerate generative AI innovation around the world by providing ground-breaking startups with the credits, mentorship, and visibility they need to scale with confidence,” said Jon Jones, VP and global head of Startups at AWS.
Open to global participation
The hybrid setup starts with an in-person session in Seattle and ends at AWS re:Invent 2025. Virtual sessions will run between these events. Startups interested in applying should already have a working Minimum Viable Product (MVP), some customer interest, and a skilled technical team. Prior AWS experience is not necessary, though startups already using AWS will benefit from advanced technical support.
AWS said the 2025 cohort will reflect its global focus, with participants expected from North America, Asia Pacific and Japan, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. The program also includes industry-specific guidance for companies developing foundational models, infrastructure, or application-level AI.
Applications for the 2025 AWS Generative AI Accelerator can be submitted until July 10 through the AWS website.
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