Amazon Sustainability Accelerator

Amazon seeks solutions that can optimise energy-consuming processes, reduce emissions and transition towards sustainable practices. We are studying technologies such as AI, geothermal/HVAC, building materials and DC microgrids.

Amazon seeks solutions that can support reusable e-commerce delivery packaging systems. These include innovative packaging materials and closed-loop reusable systems technology that are adaptable to Amazon's size and scale.

We study technologies including, but not limited to, AI, repair solutions, material circularity for batteries, product repairability and durability, and reverse logistics optimisation.

Businesses should:

• Be in a position where they have moved beyond prototype testing and are working towards generating initial revenue and growing their business (TRL 6 and above).

• Be registered in the European Economic Area, the United Kingdom or Switzerland.

• Have technology that is relevant to the sectors identified.
• Have technology that is scalable. Amazon will only fund technologies that have the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions and/or reduce impacts beyond carbon and reduce operating expenses.

• Have technology that has the potential to make a global impact. Amazon strongly prefers projects that apply to all markets, geographies, supply types etc.

• The accelerator is open to businesses registered in the European Economic Area, the United Kingdom or Switzerland, and will take place both in-person in London, United Kingdom and online, through virtual online sessions.

• Agree and comply with official Terms and Conditions and other policies associated with the Pilot Challenge Programme..

Amazon is not looking for project developers selling third-party products, businesses without operational prototypes, consulting firms, marketing or public relations agencies, or acquired start-ups.

Apply to the Pilot Challenge by registering your interest and completing the application form. In order to allow resource planning for the Pilot Challenge, applications will open on 4 March 2024. Applications will be reviewed internally from April to May. Successful candidates will be asked to provide further information. Applications will close on 5 April.

Start-ups that apply and are selected will benefit from an intense 4-week accelerator. During this time, start-ups will learn about Amazon's internal processes and needs. At the end of the 4-week accelerator, start-ups will pitch for the opportunity to participate in a pilot project with Amazon. Successful start-ups, alongside Amazon's internal teams, will then enter a longer validation period to finalise the details of their pilot project..

No, the Accelerator will be operated in a hybrid manner (mixing online and in-person support), allowing you to benefit from face-to-face support when you need it most, while having the flexibility and ease to participate in activities online. However, please note that week 1 (20/05/2024–24/05/2024) and 18/06/2024 will take place in-person in London.

Around 15 start-ups will participate in the 4-week accelerator challenge, split equally across the 3 programme verticals: Buildings (5), Packaging (5) and Circular Economy (5). Each start-up will pitch their solution to get a chance to pilot it with Amazon; 1–2 start-ups from each programme vertical will be selected.

The programme is free and Amazon does not take equity.

A pilot with Amazon is not guaranteed. A typical pilot budget for emerging technologies can range from $50 million to $2 million, depending on the project duration and scope (e.g. feasibility studies, prototype testing etc.) needed to determine key performance indicators. This range is for illustrative purposes only and actual funding offer(s), if any, is at Amazon's sole discretion.