Nvidia seems to be stepping away from direct interaction with cryptocurrency startups, banning them from eligibility to have its support, mentorship, and access to its resources. The news was shared on the X social media platform by Chinese crypto journalist and blogger Colin Wu.
From now on, any startup affiliated with crypto is not eligible to join Nvidia’s Inception accelerator program.
Crypto startups not eligible, AI ones preferred
Wu shared a link to Nvidia’s Inception accelerator program application page, where it says that “companies associated with cryptocurrency” do not qualify for membership in this startup accelerator program.
NVIDIA clearly stated on its Inception accelerator program application page that companies related to cryptocurrency are not eligible to join. The program requires applicants to be startups that have been established for no more than 10 years, and consulting companies, cloud…
— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) April 24, 2025
However, it is focused on supporting startups focused on AI and provides “training for AI developers,” which likely includes access to AI SDKs (software development kits), libraries, tutorials, and mentorship to help new startups create and improve their AI products.
Besides, startups that qualify for membership get discounts on Nvidia hardware and software, and “opportunities to connect with NVIDIA’s network of venture capital firms.” To qualify, a company must be in existence for no more than 10 years, be officially incorporated, employ at least one developer, and maintain a working website.
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