The Alexa Next Stage, Powered by Techstars program started with sessions focused on voice design best practices and each team had the opportunity to work with mentors, including Alexa solutions architects to help the teams understand the tools and resources Amazon makes available for developers to build exciting Alexa experiences.
Startup teams also participated in hands-on workshops that guided companies on how to set up key performance indicators (KPIs), manage sales funnels, optimize marketing, conduct negotiations, and build fundraising strategies.
Is Alexa Next Stage replacing the Alexa Accelerator program?
Alexa Next Stage is an evolution of our Alexa Accelerator program. We listened to our founders and other members of the startup community to create Alexa Next Stage. The program is designed to engage a broader set of companies, both by stage and geography, and bring more Alexa experiences to life and to our customers.
Why did you shift to a virtual program?
Alexa now delights customers all over the world. We wanted to create a program that reached startups in many more regions and allowed them to participate from their home base. The program topics that are covered by Amazon or Techstars speakers, and company mentoring will be conducted by interactive video conference. Techstars has used this approach in its Techstars Anywhere program and we’re looking forward to using it here. We’ll share more details with companies that are accepted into the program.
Why is the program restricted to companies from the Americas, the U.K., and the EU?
The virtual program requires simultaneous attendance by all participants, which is challenging to achieve across time zones. We’re starting with the Americas, the U.K., and the EU and will look to expand further at a later time.
I’m a founding stage company; Can I still apply?
Yes! The evolution of this program is meant to be more inclusive, not restrictive.
I’d still like to come to Seattle. Can I do that?
Yes, but you’ll have to arrange your own working space.
