Building with Intention: Inside the AWS x Techstars Impact Bootcamps
Feb 04, 2026
Great startup programs don’t happen by accident — they are designed with care, clarity, and purpose.
When we set out to build the AWS x Techstars Impact Bootcamps, we were very intentional about one thing: every single minute of the agenda had to matter.
Our goal wasn’t to create another inspirational event that feels good in the moment and fades the next day. We wanted founders to walk away with tools they could apply immediately, energy to keep going, and a community that would last far beyond the bootcamp.
That intention became the foundation of the program, built around three core pillars.
“We designed the agenda — and every minute of it — to fulfill these three goals.”
Pillar 1: Practical & Tactical Knowledge You Can Use the Next Day
Founders don’t need more theory, they need clarity, frameworks, and actionable strategies, especially when it comes to scaling and fundraising.
Every session in the bootcamp was designed to answer questions like:
How do I prepare for fundraising now?
What metrics actually matter to investors?
How do I scale without breaking what already works?
The result? Content that founders could immediately turn into action.
“What stood out most was the mix of actionable feedback and community — it wasn’t just theory, it was real strategies I could implement immediately.”
— Ryan Brown, Founder of Squadies, Atlanta Bootcamp
“The tools and strategies we gained are already helping us propel our startup forward with confidence.”
— Kirsten Tucker, Founder of ItinAFair, New York Impact Bootcamp
“The sessions offered a fantastic blend of practical insights and strategic knowledge that I hadn’t gained from any other event.”
— Abisola Bright, Founder of Polishpad, London Bootcamp
Pillar 2: Inspiration & Motivation That Reconnects You to Your “Why”
Building a startup is hard, especially when you’re doing it while navigating systemic barriers.
We intentionally created spaces for inspiration, honest conversations, and shared experiences. Moments where founders could pause, reflect, and remember why they started — and why it’s worth continuing.
“Every session in this Bootcamp was packed with inspiration, education, and new ideas. The world-class mentorship we received already changed my life!”
— Adriana Barragan, Founder of Fly Orka, Mexico City Bootcamp
This pillar wasn’t about hype. It was about renewing confidence, momentum, and belief — the kind that fuels real execution.
Pillar 3: Meaningful Connections with Peers, Mentors & Speakers
Startups don’t scale in isolation.
One of the strongest outcomes of the bootcamps has been the depth of connections formed — not just networking, but real relationships with:
Like-minded founders facing similar challenges
Mentors who give honest, direct feedback
Speakers who stay engaged beyond their sessions
“I made 12 truly meaningful connections — from mentors to fellow founders who I know will remain part of my journey.”
— Ryan Brown, Founder of Squadies
“The power of community was experienced in this Bootcamp.”
— Adriana Barragan, Founder of Fly Orka
These connections are often what founders tell us matter the most because they continue long after the bootcamp ends.
Why We Focus on Underrepresented Founders
The AWS Impact Bootcamps were intentionally designed for underrepresented founders.
Today, only around 2.5% of total venture capital goes to underrepresented founders, including women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ founders. That’s not a lack of talent; it’s a lack of access.
“We designed the AWS Impact Bootcamps for underrepresented founders because we need to be very intentional about selection — to give access to opportunities and networks that allow founders to scale faster.”
— Sara Lila Cordero, Techstars Program Team
Intentional design means intentional impact.
A Global Journey — And What’s Next
So far, we’ve implemented the AWS x Techstars Impact Bootcamps in:
Atlanta
New York
Mexico City
London
Each city brought its own energy, challenges, and incredible founders.
And now, we’re excited to continue the journey.
Next stops: Tokyo and Berlin
“Apply to the Bootcamp!!”
— Edgar Barba, Founder of Atombot, Mexico City Bootcamp
Ready to Be Part of It?
If you’re a founder looking for:
Practical knowledge you can apply immediately
Inspiration that fuels action
A community that truly supports your journey
We’d love to build this next chapter with you.