Amazon and Techstars Launch Bootcamps to Empower Diverse Startup Founders

In a bold move to level the entrepreneurial playing field, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Techstars have teamed up to launch the AWS Impact Bootcamps—a global initiative designed to support underrepresented startup founders with the tools, mentorship, and funding they need to thrive.

As reported by Small Business Trends, the bootcamps kick off in September 2025, starting in Atlanta and expanding to Mexico City, London, Berlin, and Tokyo. The goal? To reach founders from marginalized communities and help them scale their ideas in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Why This Matters for Small-Town Entrepreneurs

Small-town founders often face barriers to entry in the tech world—limited access to capital, mentorship, and high-level training. This initiative directly addresses those gaps by offering:

✅ Hands-On Technical Training

• Two-day bootcamps with expert-led workshops

• Cloud-based project development using AWS tools

✅ Business Coaching & Mentorship

• Direct access to seasoned entrepreneurs and investors

• Tailored advice based on local market conditions

✅ Financial Support

• $5,000 in AWS promotional credits for each participant

• Opportunity to apply for the AWS Founder Retreat, which includes grants up to $50,000

Who Can Apply?

To qualify, founders must:

• Identify as part of an underrepresented community (Black, Latino, LGBTQIA+, Women, etc.)

• Be engaged in serving or supporting such communities

• Demonstrate a clear need for cloud technology

• Be self-funded, angel-backed, or have raised up to Series A funding

  
  

While the application process is competitive, it’s a golden opportunity for small-town innovators to showcase their vision and gain national—and even global—support.

Voices Behind the Movement

Dr. Nashlie Sephus, AWS’s Principal AI/ML Tech Evangelist, summed it up powerfully:

“Talent is equally distributed, but opportunity is not.”

David Cohen, Founder and CEO of Techstars, added:

“This partnership with AWS will allow us to reach founders we might not otherwise meet and give them the mentorship and guidance they need to scale.”

Small Town Wow Takeaway

This isn’t just a tech story—it’s a community story. Programs like AWS Impact Bootcamps are a lifeline for small-town founders who have the talent but lack the access. Whether you're building a wellness brand rooted in local heritage or launching a digital platform to connect rural artisans, this initiative could be your launchpad.