Amazon Web Services Launches India's 1st Space Tech Accelerator
Amazon Web Services (AWS), in collaboration with T-Hub and Minfy, has introduced the inaugural space technology accelerator program in India. Known as the AWS Space Accelerator: India, this initiative offers startups in the space technology sector a comprehensive platform for technical expertise, business support, and mentorship to expedite their growth and development.
Marking AWS' debut in the realm of space sector accelerators, this program aligns with the memorandum of understanding (MoU) inked with ISRO and IN-SPACe in September last year. The agreement aims to cultivate space technology startups and foster innovation within the sector. "Technologies such as generative AI open transformative opportunities for space-tech, and we are committed to helping startups innovate and develop sustainable solutions for the space sector", Clint Crosier, Director, Aerospace and Satellite, AWS, said in a statement.
Submissions are currently being accepted for the AWS Space Accelerator: India program. Over a span of 14 weeks, this accelerator initiative will furnish startups based in India with tailored business support, specialized expertise, and direction in both technological and business domains. Its objective is to empower these startups to utilize AWS effectively in developing, expanding, and advancing their missions.
Eligible startups admitted to the program stand to gain various advantages, such as access to up to $100,000 in AWS credits. Additionally, they will receive guidance from professionals affiliated with ISRO, IN-SPACe, and AWS, along with comprehensive business and technological assistance from T-Hub and Minfy. Through the program, startups will delve into space-related technologies and applications, learning to harness space data and develop scalable solutions utilizing cloud computing, data analytics, and machine learning. This includes exploring the potential application of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI).
"India has world-class talent in the space sector, and we look forward to collaborating with ISRO, IN-SPACe, T-Hub and Minfy through this initiative to nurture space-tech innovation in the country", said Shalini Kapoor, Director and Chief Technologist, Public Sector, AWS India Private Limited. ISRO, in alignment with its mission to promote awareness of space technology and bolster India's space industry, intends to assess the terms outlined in the MoU with AWS. Accordingly, it will offer requisite assistance, adhering to departmental guidelines, to nurture startup innovation within the nation.
