Join the Amazon Innovation Accelerator (AIA) in the SOUTH WEST—a free, hands-on programme designed to help ambitious SMEs scale, automate, and innovate just like Amazon. Learn the innovative techniques used by Amazon to hire and manage teams, develop new products, create leadership structures, and maintain their relentless focus on innovation and growth.
Amazon Innovation Accelerator - Bristol
Amazon are looking for 30 of the South West’s most ambitious SMEs to join a transformative programme designed to provide the complete blueprint for innovation. Apply now to:
- Learn directly from Amazon’s senior experts how new products are launched and scaled.
- Discover how to adopt and apply Amazon’s proven strategies to your own business and create a culture where innovation thrives.
- Join a network of SMEs across the UK selected for their innovation potential
As part of the programme, you’ll earn recognition as an AIA Innovation Leader, showcasing your ability to drive transformation. Plus, enter the Innovation Challenge Prize to win a share of £100,000 (First Prize is £50,000) for the most high-potential innovation ideas, helping bring your vision to life.
Who Should Apply?
Our programme offers tailored resources and support designed to elevate your business. Experience growth through innovative solutions and expert guidance.
Ambitious SMEs
SMEs looking to embrace digital transformation, improve operational efficiency, and scale their business using proven innovation strategies.
Business owners and decision-makers
Who are eager to learn from Amazon’s approach to innovation, leadership, and automation to drive growth in their organisations.
SMEs across all sectors
SMEs that want to connect with like-minded peers, access expert insights, and gain practical tools to future-proof their business.
Why Join?
The Amazon Innovation Accelerator – an Amazon first-of-its kind training programme for small businesses designed to boost small business growth and productivity.
If you are selected for the programme you will experience business-boosting workshops, explore Amazon’s Innovation Principles, tour the cutting-edge robotics centre, and connect with key stakeholders from Amazon, AWS, and the local community.
Learn from Amazon’s Innovation Framework
Gain exclusive insights into how Amazon drives efficiency, automation, and continuous improvement, and apply these strategies to your business.
Unlock Growth Opportunities
Access expert-led workshops, a digital learning platform, and a chance to win a share of £100,000 through the Innovation Challenge Prize to fuel your innovation journey.
Connect and Collaborate
Join a community of forward-thinking SMEs, industry experts, and policy influencers to share ideas, challenges, and opportunities for growth.
AIA Bristol Agenda
9:30
Welcome to AIA and Introduction
Begin your innovation journey with an introduction to the Amazon Innovation Accelerator. Learn how Amazon’s Leadership Principles can help your SME grow and thrive. Meet peers and start building your innovation network.
10:00
Introduction from Participants
10:30
Innovation in Action at Amazon Fulfilment Centres – What to look for?
Build a culture of continuous innovation. Explore Amazon’s four pillars of innovation—Culture, Mechanisms, Architecture, and Organisation. Learn how SMEs can adopt these principles and embed continuous improvement. Gain practical steps to drive innovation in your business.
11:15
12:30 – 1:30
Collaborate and Connect: Networking Lunch
Connect with SME leaders and Amazon experts over lunch. Share ideas, build relationships, and gain insights to inspire your innovation journey. Expand your network with peers and special guests.
13:30
Insights & learnings from the Tour
14:00
The Culture of Innovation at Amazon – Part One
Apply Amazon’s “Working Backwards” method to craft a tailored innovation strategy. Work with experts and peers to develop an actionable plan for your SME. Leave with clear next steps to drive growth and improvement.
14:45
Break
15:15
16:00
From Insight to Action: Applying Amazon’s Principles
Participate in a Q&A with Amazon experts to address your business challenges. Review key takeaways and outline actionable next steps. Learn about the AIA SME Hub, the network to support ongoing innovation.
16:15
Driving Impact Together: Wrap-Up and Feedback
Share your thoughts and help us improve. We’re dedicated to helping SMEs grow, scale, and succeed—just as Amazon has. Your feedback is essential in ensuring we deliver the support you need.
16:30
Q&A and What’s Next
*Agenda subject to change
Our Speakers
What to Expect
E-Learning & Resource Platform
Exclusive access to the AIA digital e-learning platform, fireside chats and Amazon exclusive resources. Master Amazon’s “Working Backwards” methodology at your own pace and become a certified AIA Innovation Leader.
Innovation
Experience innovation firsthand with exclusive access to Amazon’s cutting-edge robotics and automation systems, paired with hands-on workshops led by Amazon’s top experts.
Community
Connect with a peer-to-peer community of SMEs across the UK and your region to exchange ideas, collaborate on solutions, network effectively, and innovate together for shared success.
Bristol
21 February 2025
Building 6020, Western Approach, Western Approach Distribution Park, Severn Beach, Bristol BS35 4GG
Experience Innovation Firsthand: Attend an exclusive on-site day at Amazon to see cutting-edge innovation and operational excellence in action.
Comprehensive Learning Resources & Exclusive Access to the AIA Community: Access the Innovation Digital Course, workshops, videos, and fireside chats with expert speakers.
Win Prizes for Your Innovation Ideas: A chance to win a share of £100,000 in the Innovation Challenge Prize.
Partnering with Amazon on the AIA is an exciting opportunity to bring meaningful innovation to the UK’s SME community. By combining Amazon’s operational excellence with our expertise in running accelerators, we aim to create a programme that not only supports SME growth but also drives long-term regional development.
Rayan Jawad
Programme Lead for AIA
about
Growth Studio drives growth and innovation for startups and established businesses, partnering with global brands like Cisco and Amazon to deliver impactful results.
As AIA’s delivery partner, we provide tailored, hands-on support, equipping SMEs with actionable insights, valuable connections, and the confidence to thrive in a dynamic business environment.
FAQs
Everything you need to know about the AIA Programme.
The AIA is a free, practical programme designed to help SMEs across the UK adopt digital technologies, enhance innovation, and achieve sustainable growth. The programme provides hands-on learning, expert insights, and access to a thriving community of business leaders.
The programme is open to SMEs across various industries in the UK that are eager to embrace digital transformation and innovation within their business operations.
Participants will gain:
- A one-day immersive workshop at an Amazon Fulfilment Centre to learn from Amazon experts.
- Access to an exclusive digital learning course, leading to an AIA Innovation Leader accreditation.
- Opportunities to network with SME peers, Amazon experts, and industry leaders.
- A chance to compete for the Innovation Challenge Prize, with funding of up to £100,000.
Complete the online application form for your nearest regional event on the relevant event page. Applications are open on a rolling basis, and successful applicants will be notified one month before the in-person workshop.
No, the programme is fully funded by Amazon and is free for all participating SMEs.
Once you submit your application, our team will review it, and you will receive confirmation of your participation at least one month before the in-person event. You will also be granted access to the digital learning platform ahead of the workshop.
Here’s what to expect in the coming weeks after you apply:
- Application Review – Our team will carefully review your submission to ensure alignment with the programme goals.
- Cohort Confirmation – If selected, you’ll receive an official confirmation about one month before your regional event.
- Programme Kickoff – Once confirmed, you’ll receive everything you need to know about your on-site day and next steps.
- Attend the On-Site Event – After your cohort’s on-site day, you’ll gain access to our exclusive online community and digital course, preparing you to innovate like Amazon.
The one-day event at an Amazon Fulfilment Centre includes:
- A behind-the-scenes tour to see Amazon’s innovation in action.
- Hands-on workshops with Amazon experts to learn best practices in innovation, automation, and business operations.
- Opportunities to network with other SMEs and industry stakeholders.
By completing the digital course, participants will earn the ‘AIA Innovation Leader’ accreditation, which demonstrates their commitment to innovation and can enhance their credibility with partners and investors.
Participants will access the digital course after the on-site day in their region, where they can engage with learning modules, downloadable resources, and fireside chats with industry leaders.
Participants who complete the programme will have the opportunity to enter to win a share of £100,000 in the Innovation Challenge Prize to implement their innovation strategies. The First Prize is £50,000.
You will receive ongoing engagement on the AIA SME HUB, including guidance from Growth Studio and Amazon experts, access to a dedicated online SME community, and regular check-ins to help track your progress.
Once selected, you will receive login details for the AIA SME HUB, where you can connect with peers, access learning materials, and participate in live events and discussions.
Yes, while the in-person event is limited to one representative per business, you can invite another two team members to access the digital course and participate in online discussions.
The programme runs across multiple regions throughout the year with ongoing learning and engagement on the AIA digital platform which is accessed after your on-site day for the region you applied for. Visit our website to find the dates for your nearest cohort and submit your application in time.
Following the workshop, you will continue your learning journey through the digital platform, fireside chats, and exclusive networking opportunities, helping you apply the lessons learned and stay connected with the AIA community.
You can contact our team at aia@growthstudio.com for any questions or assistance with your application and participation.
Still have questions?
Contact our team at aia@growthstudio.com for help with your application or participation—we’re here to assist!