Amazon Web Services (AWS), a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., has announced the selection of 80 startups for its 2024 global AWS Generative AI Accelerator cohort. This initiative is part of AWS's $230 million commitment to accelerate the development of generative AI applications by startups worldwide.

“This new generation of startups is at the forefront of a transformative new wave, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with artificial intelligence while bringing exciting new solutions to market,” said Jon Jones, Vice President of Go-to-Market at AWS and executive sponsor of the program. “Expanding the cohort for our Generative AI Accelerator is a testament to the potential we see for startups to usher in new innovations for customers in an increasingly AI-driven world. AWS is committed to fostering groundbreaking technologies and supporting visionary founders on their journey to solve the world’s biggest challenges.”

The selected startups were chosen from over 4,700 applications from 129 countries, representing an acceptance rate of less than 2%. The selection committee comprised AWS startup experts and program partners who evaluated applicants based on their idea strength, technical readiness, and interview performance.

In response to rapid growth in generative AI companies over the past year, AWS increased the cohort size from 20 to 80 and expanded its geographic reach globally. Each participating startup will receive up to $1 million in AWS credits, go-to-market support, business and technical mentorship. Founders will also have access to a network that includes domain experts from AWS as well as partners like NVIDIA, Meta, Mistral AI, and various venture capital firms.

The program begins on September 30 at Amazon HQ in Seattle with a week focused on learning, mentorship, and leadership. It will conclude with a showcase event at AWS re:Invent in Las Vegas in December.

A complete list of participating startups can be found on the 2024 Cohort Page.