Amazon Expands Innovation Accelerator to Empower More UK Small Businesses in 2024

Key Points:

• Program Expansion: Amazon’s Innovation Accelerator has expanded to seven locations across the UK in 2024.
• Purpose and Benefits: The program provides free training, best practices, and insights into Amazon's operations to help small businesses innovate and grow.
• Components: Includes in-person workshops, site tours, virtual masterclasses, and networking opportunities.
• Eligibility: Open to small businesses in manufacturing, engineering, logistics, retail, or related industries with 50+ employees or a turnover of £5 million+.
• Application Process: Businesses can apply for participation in one of the seven locations, with more information available via email.

Detailed Insight:

Amazon’s Innovation Accelerator has launched its 2024 program, expanding to seven locations across the UK to help small businesses innovate and grow. This exclusive initiative invites small businesses into Amazon’s operations, offering a unique perspective on how the company has scaled its operations in the UK.

The Accelerator is a month-long, free training program designed to support small businesses by providing practical training workshops, insights into Amazon's approach to innovation, and networking opportunities. The program includes:

• In-Person Workshops: Delivered by senior Amazon leaders, covering topics like leadership, continuous improvement, and growth mindset.
• Site Tours: Demonstrating the latest technologies used by Amazon.
• Virtual Masterclasses: Featuring guest speakers discussing data, digitalization, sustainability, and social value.
• Networking: Opportunities with Amazon teams and other participating businesses.

The 2024 Accelerator kicked off in Greater Manchester at Amazon's Bolton Robotics Centre and will continue with cohorts throughout the year in various locations:

• Bolton (March-April)
• Swansea (May-June)
• Sutton Coldfield (June)
• Stockton-on-Tees (June-July)
• Dunfermline (August-September)
• Wakefield (September-October)
• Dartford (September-October)

Eligible businesses are those operating in manufacturing, engineering, logistics, retail, or related industries, with at least 50 employees or a turnover of £5 million. Interested businesses can apply for the Accelerator by contacting Amazon directly at aia-uk@amazon.com.

Amazon’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its significant investments and the forming of thousands of jobs in the UK. Since 2010, Amazon has invested £56 billion in the UK and employs around 75,000 people. Innovation is at the core of Amazon's operations, with more than 2,700 employees at development centers across the UK working on projects like Prime Video, Alexa, and personalized shopping experiences.

Innovation is crucial for Amazon to maintain a start-up mentality and continue serving its customers effectively. Over 100,000 UK-based small and medium enterprises sell their products on Amazon, and in 2022, these businesses recorded over £3 billion in export sales, underscoring the importance of continuous innovation and support for small businesses.