AWS opens applications for GenAI startup accelerator programme

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has opened applications for the third cohort of the AWS Generative AI Accelerator (GAIA), an eight-week global programme designed to scale early-stage startups building foundational generative AI technologies.

In a statement, AWS said 40 promising startups from around the world will be selected for this year’s programme, which kicks off on October 13, 2025, at Amazon HQ1 in Seattle. Applications are open from June 10 through July 10, and the selected cohort will be announced on September 24, 2025.

With generative AI tools now widely available, AWS is focusing efforts in 2025 to support those startups who are developing generative AI technologies, including building models, infrastructure, fine-tuning tools, and agentic workflows that will drive the next wave of innovation. The programme aims to accelerate these teams with up to $1 million in AWS credits, technical guidance and mentorship, go-to-market support, and access to AWS’s generative AI tech stack.

“We are now at a stage where virtually all startups will be applying generative AI to their business in one shape or form. That’s why for this year’s accelerator, we are honing our focus to support those startups developing the foundational technologies that will define what’s possible with AI,” said Jon Jones, VP and Global Head of Startups at AWS.

The AWS Generative AI Accelerator is an eight-week hybrid programme, offering virtual sessions between the in-person launch at the Amazon HQ in Seattle and conclusion of the program at AWS re:Invent 2025.