Amazon Web Services has increased its efforts to target startups with its new Activate programme.
The bundle of services offers startups the options of a Self-Starter Package and a Portfolio Package, depending on whether they are working independently of support networks or have aligned themselves with one.
AWS has always been aimed at startups looking for a cost-effective cloud solution, but the launch of Activate heralds a new attempt to go after the accelerators, incubators and seed funds which support new companies.
The Self-Starter option is for startups "doing it on their own" and offers access to the AWS Free Usage Tier and a month’s 24/7 support at developer level, as well as one hands-on training lab and entry into the AWS Startup Forum, where entrepreneurs and early-stage firms can connect.
But the launch of the Activate programme heralds AWS’s push to go after the support networks available for startups with the new Portfolio Package.
Such networks are invited to apply for this option, which includes extras such as up to a year’s support at business level, four hands-on training labs, selected third-party product promotions and up to $15,000 in promotional credit.
AWS is already working with companies including Seed Camp, GSF Accelerator, Tech Stars and Rocket Space to offer the package to their startups, and also lists VCs as organisations signed up to offer the programme.
