AWS (Amazon Web Services) has introduced its first-ever space accelerator program in India, selecting 24 promising spacetech startups. The program, called AWS Space Accelerator: India, aims to encourage innovation and growth in the space technology sector. This 14-week initiative offers technical expertise, specialized AWS training, and mentorship from industry experts.
Startup Selection Process
The selection process for the accelerator was thorough. Startups were chosen based on their innovative solutions, product-market fit, sustainability, and creative use of AWS technology. The evaluation also considered the teams’ ability to execute their vision. The 24 startups selected represent various segments of the space industry, including spacecraft propulsion, orbital and launch vehicles, satellite imagery, geospatial applications, weather analysis, and space tourism. These startups come from diverse locations such as Mangaluru, Port Blair, and Thoothukudi, not just major cities.
Who Are the Selected Startups?
The chosen startups are Advick Agventure, AERO2ASTRO, Aeroin SpaceTech Pvt. Ltd., Agnihotri Aerospace, AkashaLabdhi Pvt. Ltd., Brahmaandco Spacetech, Blurgs AI, CoralComp Pvt. Ltd., Cosmicport, Cosmo Crawler, Expanse Cosmos, GISKernel Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Inbound Aerospace, Insight360.ai, KosmosOne, Omspace Rocket and Exploration, Onnes Cryogenics Pvt. Ltd., Pramatra Space, Satlabs Space Systems, Sisir Radar, Space Aura, SpanTrik, Taramandal, and Thrustworks Dynetics.
Support and Benefits for Startups
The selected startups will receive AWS credits worth up to $100,000, along with extensive support to develop and scale their solutions. This includes access to advanced technologies like Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, and data analytics. Additionally, startups will receive guidance on go-to-market strategies, fundraising, and business fundamentals, equipping them with the necessary tools to succeed in the competitive spacetech landscape.
AWS Collaboration with ISRO and IN-SPACe
This accelerator program follows an MoU between AWS, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), and the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) signed in 2023. The MoU highlights the collaborative effort to support the growth of space startups in India. Clint Crosier, Director of the Aerospace and Satellite Business at AWS, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “We specifically chose to hold this first country-focused space accelerator in India because we see extraordinary growth opportunities in the Indian space sector.”
Upcoming Event for Startups
The AWS Space Accelerator: India program will culminate with an event in July/August 2024, where the 24 startups will present their innovative solutions to key stakeholders and potential investors. This event aims to provide a platform for the startups to gain visibility and attract venture capital funding. Supported by T-Hub and Minfy, this program is expected to significantly boost the startups’ ability to leverage space data and build secure, scalable solutions using AWS technologies.
