Paddle, a London, UK-based complete payments infrastructure provider for software companies, announced the launch of AI Launchpad.
AI Launchpad is a new 6-week program run by Paddle aimed at empowering ambitious software founders to build, launch and scale their AI-powered business ideas. Working with industry experts, participants will receive tailored guidance and actionable, practical insights, as well as the chance to win a $25,000 cash prize for the best offering, as judged by a panel of experts.
The AI Launchpad will give AI founders an opportunity to accelerate their company growth by offering masterclasses and interactive workshops from industry experts on the fundamentals of SaaS scaling, including product and go-to-market (GTM) strategies, finance & operations and industry positioning. 25 founders will be accepted on to the first cohort of the program based on their AI business idea, their minimum viable product, and their ability to demonstrate market traction and growth potential.
As part of the programme, Founderpath, a $150m fund for SaaS founders, has allocated $10m in funding for selected participants who complete Paddle’s programs, providing additional opportunities and resources to further accelerate their growth and success. Other partners and contributors for AI Launchpad will include AWS Activate, SaaStock, Toplyne, Banana, PartnerStack, Enablix, Kustomer, ArK Kapital, SaaS Launch, and Startup ROI.
Key elements and benefits of the AI Launchpad programme will include:
- Expert mentorship – Participants will have access to mentorship from software industry leaders, providing invaluable guidance and insights.
- Collaborative community – AI founders and innovators will have the opportunity to meet, connect, and collaborate, fostering a supportive ecosystem of like-minded individuals. There will be weekly peer coaching calls and Slack channels.
- Cash Prize – The program will culminate with a cash prize of $25,000 for one founder. This substantial financial boost will catapult the development and market reach of the winning startup.
- Additional benefits from partners such as free access to products, credits, and masterclasses.
In addition to the cash prize, runners-up will benefit from co-marketing events with Paddle and its partners, as well as complimentary tickets to industry events like SaaStock.
Applications will open on 18th July and will close on 31st August 2023.
Founded in 2012 by Christian Owens, Executive Chairman, Paddle provides payments, invoicing, billing, tax, compliance and metrics tools to AI software businesses. The company recorded a 337% growth in revenue in the last 12 months with more than 4,000 SaaS businesses using its tools to sell into over 200 markets globally, including AI innovators such as Vidyo.ai, Kaleido AI and more.
FinSMEs
18/07/2023