Amazon Web Services (AWS) has launched an accelerator program for space startups in India called AWS Space Accelerator: India. The program, supported by Hyderabad-based startup incubator T-Hub and cloud solution firm Minfy, aims to provide resources and expertise to early-stage and mature space tech startups in the country. AWS has partnered with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and IN-SPACe to enable support for startups in the space technology sector.
The 14-week accelerator program will focus on guiding startups in technology and business capabilities, with a specific emphasis on leveraging AWS to build, grow, and scale their missions. Startups participating in the program will gain access to up to $100,000 in AWS credits, as well as mentoring support from experts at ISRO, IN-SPACe, and AWS. They will also receive business and technology support from T-Hub and Minfy.
According to Clint Crosier, Director of Aerospace and Satellite at AWS Inc., cloud computing plays a crucial role in powering the future of the space industry. It allows space-tech startups to utilize high-performance computing resources for tasks such as data analysis and applying machine learning models. With lower costs of operations, faster time-to-market, and scalability, startups can drive innovation in their missions.
The selected startups will receive training on space domain technologies and applications, as well as guidance on how to leverage space data and build scalable solutions using cloud computing, data analytics, and machine learning. The program also highlights the potential to apply generative artificial intelligence (AI) in space technology.
An AWS report called Realizing a Cloud-enabled Economy: How Cloud Drives Economic and Societal Impact Through Small Businesses states that cloud-enabled small businesses in India could unlock annual productivity benefits of Rs 1.1 trillion (Rs 1.10 lakh crore) in agriculture. It predicts a 300% increase in the usage rate of precision agriculture solutions by 2030, which enhance productivity in the sector.
Mahankali Srinivas Rao, CEO of T-Hub, expressed excitement about the program, emphasizing its potential to foster innovation, collaboration, and strengthen the startup ecosystem in India. T-Hub will provide dedicated mentorship, technical support, and a vibrant alumni network to help startups succeed in the space sector.
The AWS Space Accelerator: India program is poised to support the growth of space startups in India, leveraging the benefits of cloud computing and collaborations with industry experts. With the combination of expertise, resources, and mentorship, startups can propel their missions forward and contribute to the advancements in space technology.
