US Ignite has announced the Smart City Start-up Accelerator programme to help developers launch cloud-based businesses or services that address challenges in the modern, connected city.

The programme is being supported by Amazon Web Services (AWS). Participants will gain access to an eight-week online training course through Kauffman FastTrac, as well as benefits that include up to $10,000 in AWS credits, and the opportunity to connect with Amazon mentors.

Those taking part will also present their business strategies at a final event this September at Amazon offices in Washington, DC.

Applications open

Early-stage start-up companies are encouraged to apply, with applications open from now through 31 May. Ideal candidates for the accelerator programme will be developing a cloud-based product or service in one of the following areas:

• AI/ML to enhance or streamline city services
• AR/VR for workforce development, first responders, and smart manufacturing
• autonomous vehicles
• cyber-security for IoT and smart city infrastructure
• public safety sensors and analytics
• next-generation IoT sensors for energy and other utilities
• real-time data analysis and visualization tools tailored for city and industry leaders.

The Smart City Start-up Accelerator programme is an outgrowth of US Ignite’s efforts with communities across the country – including through the Smart Gigabit Communities (SGC) programme – to accelerate the adoption of smart city applications.

The goal of these efforts is to solve problems and develop innovation ecosystems with the benefit of advanced networking technologies and data-driven strategies.

For more information on the Startup Accelerator, visit the programme webpage. To apply to participate, submit an application online.

US Ignite is a non‐profit organisation, which aims to accelerate the smart city movement by guiding communities into the connected future, creating a path for private sector growth, and advancing technology research.

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