AWS (Amazon Web Services) not only offers startups a cloud platform with more than 165 services, but also supports young companies with mentoring, bootcamps, events, meetups, coaching, and financing. We spoke with Ewa Treitz from AWS about working with startups.
Munich Startup: Many well-known startups like Spotify, Pinterest, Airbnb, etc. now use the AWS cloud. What are the benefits of cloud computing for startups, and how does the AWS platform differ from competitors' offerings?
Ewa Treitz: For founders, the biggest advantage of cloud computing and AWS is that they don't have to make large capital investments, such as for data centers and server hardware. Instead, they can build an elastic IT infrastructure that is always based on the latest hardware and software technology. The underlying on-demand pricing keeps costs low, as companies only pay for the services they need and only for as long as they use them – without long-term commitments or complex licensing. Another key advantage of the AWS cloud: With currently 22 infrastructure regions and 69 availability zones worldwide, startups can scale globally with just a few clicks and thus grow quickly. AWS offers a total of more than 165 services, from compute and storage to databases, augmented reality/virtual reality platforms, and machine learning tools. In 2018 alone, AWS delivered 1,957 significant new features and services, including in areas such as machine learning, the Internet of Things, and serverless computing. In Germany, we have tens of thousands of active customers and, in Munich, for example, we have a very active AWS community of currently around 4,000 members who meet regularly to exchange information about the latest technological developments.
Pioneer spirit and drive for innovation
To what extent does AWS work with startups and what offers do you have for young companies?
Startups and AWS are primarily connected by a pioneering spirit and a drive for innovation, which is why we are a strategically important partner, especially for young companies. From Airbnb to Zalando, the world's leading startups rely on AWS. Whether it's support in solving a technical challenge, finding the right developers, or completing a fundraising round: we offer all the necessary resources for the growth of young companies. We work with a variety of incubators, venture capital firms, and other companies We work together worldwide to support startups in their development, launch, and scaling. In Munich, for example, we cooperate with the Center for Digital Technology and Management or UnternehmerTUM, as well as investors like Earlybird Ventures.
How do you support startups in building and scaling?
Our AWS Activate program provides startups with the resources they need to quickly leverage AWS—including startup funds, training, and support. We also offer participating founders access to our technical experts and numerous AWS events and workshops. In July 2019, we hosted a hands-on machine learning workshop in Munich with NVIDIA, which was attended by over 70 existing and prospective founders. Between November 4 and 15, we're also inviting startups to our AWS Popup Loft in our new office at Odeonsplatz, where we'll specifically introduce startups to the possibilities of AWS. I'm really looking forward to it!
How to apply for the AWS Activate program
How exactly can startups apply for the program and is it possible to apply across industries?
Our startup partners pass on seed funds from the AWS Activate program to their portfolio companies. This is the best way for us to ensure that as many founders as possible are reached. Startups that are part of an investor network, incubator, etc., are best advised to ask their partners directly whether they are already working with us. If the partners are not part of the Activate program, startups are welcome to contact us directly: either at one of our startup events or via the website (apply for the $1,000 package). The program is cross-industry.
What does AWS receive in return for the support?
We want to support the next generation of founders from the very beginning, because we recognize that every startup has the chance to become the next unicorn. Participation in the program is free of charge and does not obligate the startups to provide anything in return. Many startups we supported at the beginning go on to become our largest customers, like Lyft. So the investment is worthwhile for both sides.
Can you tell us some success stories with Munich startups?
Most of Munich's well-known startups run on AWS – unfortunately, we can't name them all. We're proud to be a strategic partner for companies like Flixbus, which transports millions of people worldwide, the SaaS CAD platform Simscale, and the popular fitness app Freeletics.
