Amazon Web Services (AWS) is on the lookout for innovative start-ups that are built on AWS’ cloud computing platform to participate in the annual AWS Start-Up Challenge.
AWS has expanded the competition worldwide and will choose 15 regional semi-finalists from Europe, the Americas, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa.
From among the regional semi-finalists, global finalists will be chosen and awarded a package of US$10,000 in AWS credits and a trip to attend the final round of judging and awards ceremony.
The global grand prize winner will be awarded US$50,000 in cash and US$50,000 in AWS credits, AWS premium support services for one year and technical mentorship from Amazon Web Services for one year, as well as a possible investment offer from Amazon.
All eligible contestants will receive US$25 in AWS service credits to kick start the process of building their businesses on AWS.
AWS has been designed to enable start-ups to cost-effectively and quickly innovate and build the infrastructure required to run their businesses.
Entries to the competition will be judged on their implementation of AWS solutions; originality and creativity of the business; likelihood of long-term success and scalability; and how well the business addresses a need in the marketplace.
Entries must be received no later than midnight US Pacific Time on 2 October 2011.
Regional semi-finalists and global finalists will be announced in November.
At the final AWS Start-Up Challenge event in November, finalists will present their businesses to a panel of AWS executives, venture capitalists and an audience of technology industry leaders. The final event will be streamed live worldwide.
To learn more about the AWS Start-Up Challenge, visit the website.
