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UK- and Bahrain-based technology investor C5 Accelerate Limited has announced the launch of what it claims to be the first accelerator dedicated to cloud startups in the Middle East and Africa.

The “Cloud Accelerator” is launched in conjunction with Amazon Web Services (AWS), the Bahrain Economic Development Board, and Tamkeen, and will take the form of a four-month residential programme in Bahrain.

Upto 10 startups from across the Middle East and Africa will be invited to Bahrain for the duration of the programme.

The accelerator will feature training in strategy and business principles, mentoring from C5 Accelerate, and participants will be connected with C5 Accelerate’s network of global business leaders.

AWS will also support the participants with established programmes including AWS Activate, AWS Grants, AWS Training and Certification, and developer-level support.

The Cloud Accelerator participants will also be eligible for funding from the US$100 million allied venture capital fund – the Gulf Technology Corporation – set up for the accelerator and to be managed by C5.

“The Middle East and Africa region has a burgeoning startup scene and is well placed to leverage the potential of the cloud. Our Cloud Accelerator aims to drive this innovation further and boost the region’s economy,” said Daniel Freeman, chief executive officer (CEO) of C5 Accelerate Limited.

“…we are thrilled to be working with AWS, a leading cloud computing provider, to develop an innovation hub for the region and a catalyst for further investments,” Freeman said.

“We’ve been so impressed with the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit of businesses in the Middle East and Africa, and are committed to working with C5 and the Bahrain EDB to help these businesses grow and scale,” said Teresa Carlson‎, vice president for the worldwide public sector at AWS.

“In addition to technology resources, the Cloud Accelerator’s focus on education, training, and mentorship will help businesses reach their full potential, and AWS is excited to work with them to do so.”

Those interested in applying for the inaugural programme should email  cloud.accelerator@c5capital.com.

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