Giant New York-based multinational IT firm, IBM, and Columbia University, a private Manhattan-based Ivy League research university, have announced the launch of two blockchain technology accelerator programs.
The distributed ledger technology (DLT)-focused accelerator programs are “key components” of the Columbia-IBM Center for Blockchain and Data Transparency. Both blockchain-related initiatives will provide the “expertise and resources” that “entrepreneurs and blockchain network founders” need – in order to deploy DLT-based networks.
Both Accelerators Will Support 10 Startups
Notably, the accelerator programs will “each support ten startups” that are focused on developing blockchain-related businesses and deploying enterprise level DLT-enabled networks.
Those participating in the programs will be exploring the “best practices” for developing blockchain networks. Mentors from IBM and Columbia University will provide the “technical, academic and business” assistance required to launch DLT-based solutions.
Moreover, program participants will have “access to agile design workshops from IBM” – which will be supported by “an experienced network” of business and technical professionals.
Research-Focused Blockchain Development
Additionally, the tech startups will receive guidance from Columbia University’s research community and “student talent pools.” The accelerator initiative will also give its participants access to IBM Cloud technology.
Commenting on the research-based blockchain accelerator programs, David Post, the managing director of IBM’s DLT-focused training initiative, said:
The possibilities presented by blockchain technology are seemingly endless, and we are seeing strong dedication by technical talent to build game-changing applications. What is also needed to truly bring about this sea change is the right technology and expertise which is why IBM is working with Columbia to help give these early- and mid-stage founders a way to build enterprise-grade networks that can move blockchain innovation forward.
Eight Weeks Long San Francisco, New York-based Programs
As explained in the announcement’s press release, the eight weeks long IBM Blockchain Accelerator (held in New York and San Francisco) aims to assist “later-stage growth companies” by providing them the resources required to build enterprise-level “business networks.”
Meanwhile, the eight weeks long, “on-site” New York City-based Columbia Blockchain Launch Accelerator has been developed specifically for “pre-seed, idea-stage” startups that also have a “Columbia or other recognized New York City-based University affiliation.”
Notably, this is the sixth accelerator program that Columbia University has launched – which extends support to early-stage tech companies.
Satish Rao, the executive director at Columbia Blockchain Launch Accelerator, remarked:
Columbia University has successfully launched several technology accelerators in New York City, but this our first in partnership with a corporation that is a clear industry leader in the field. Early- and late-stage teams will undoubtedly benefit from IBM’s technology resources, expertise and established network coupled with Columbia’s ground-breaking research and talent in blockchain and data transparency, all while benefiting from rapidly growing NYC blockchain communities
