Amazon Web Services (AWS) has launched the AWS Space Accelerator: APJ 2025, a 10-week program aimed at nurturing up to 40 startups from India, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. Focused on startups building solutions in satellite infrastructure, drone systems, earth observation, and propulsion, the initiative will offer each participant up to $100,000 in AWS cloud credits, in addition to technical and business mentorship.
Applications are open from July 8 to September 5, with the hybrid program beginning in September 2025 and culminating in a demo day in December. The program combines virtual and in-person sessions to support startups at different stages of development. Participants are expected to benefit from AWS’s cloud tools to test, validate, and scale their technologies efficiently.
Regional partnerships fuel ecosystem growth
AWS has brought on board a range of regional partners to deliver this program. In India, T-Hub will manage operations and host engagements, while Minfy Technologies will provide AWS training in both India and Australia. In Japan, Fusic will mentor participants, and Ansys will support simulation and design testing globally. Key government collaborators include the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) and the Australian Space Agency.
Also read: 10 Indian Startups Join WEF Tech Pioneers 2025
The accelerator builds on the success of AWS’s 2024 India edition, which supported 24 startups across quantum key distribution, propulsion, and satellite imagery. Several alumni have since raised capital or secured commercial partnerships.
Enabling next-gen space applications
The 2025 edition targets solutions for improving agriculture, connectivity, and climate resilience through remote sensing and AI-powered space technologies. By offering access to advanced infrastructure and talent networks, AWS aims to tackle key barriers such as cost-intensive testing and lack of specialised infrastructure.
The accelerator comes amid a space-tech boom in the region. India’s space industry is projected to reach $44 billion by 2033, while Japan has targeted an ¥8 trillion (~$52 billion) space economy by the early 2030s. AWS says this effort is not just about scaling startups—but also about helping build a regional innovation ecosystem that fuels economic growth through space-based solutions.
