Technology giant IBM teamed up with Columbia University to help startup companies in setting up the next generation of blockchain networks through two accelerator programs.
The duo established a new center called "Columbia-IBM Center for Blockchain and Data Transparency" in July devoted to research, education, and innovation in blockchain technology and data transparency.
The accelerator programs at the center combines research and enterprise network expertise to help early-stage and later-stage companies to build and scale blockchain businesses.
The programs will run over a period of about eight weeks, with a mixture of in-person modules in New York and San Francisco, in combination with virtual programming.
The programs will each support ten startups that are working to build out blockchain businesses and developing enterprise blockchain networks. They will have access to design workshops from IBM, the Columbia research community and student talent pools, as well as the IBM Cloud technology through the program.
As for the two programs, the IBM Blockchain Accelerator program is designed for later-stage growth companies globally and focused on building out an enterprise business network and client base for their blockchain application.
Meanwhile, the Columbia Blockchain Launch Accelerator program is designed for pre-seed, idea-stage companies with a Columbia or other recognized New York City-based University affiliation. Founders will receive tools and training on how to build a blockchain startup over the eight weeks.
Columbia University has successfully launched several technology accelerators in New York City, but this the first in partnership with a corporation like IBM. This is the sixth accelerator program hosted by Columbia that focuses on pre-seed founders.
Both programs will give the nominated companies access to technology and services valued at about $400,000 per company. IBM and Columbia do not take equity nor charge a fee for participating in either of these programs.
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