Nvidia excludes crypto startups from $5.5B accelerator program
Nvidia’s accelerator program, Inception, has updated its eligibility criteria to exclude cryptocurrency startups along with four other business categories, according to the program’s official website.
The excluded categories now include crypto companies, consulting and outsourced development firms, cloud service providers, resellers and distributors, and publicly traded companies.
This marks a policy shift for Nvidia, which in 2018 accepted blockchain-related startups such as Ubex into its program.
A Nvidia spokesperson declined to comment on the change.
The Inception program targets companies younger than 10 years at various funding stages.
Nvidia is primarily known for its semiconductor technology powering data centers, and its hardware has been widely used by crypto miners.
Despite this, the company appears to be distancing itself from crypto startups within its accelerator network.
Nvidia is a major player in the global artificial intelligence (AI) sector and introduced its H20 chip in 2024.
The H20 chip complies with US export restrictions designed to limit China’s access to advanced AI hardware.
Though less powerful than Nvidia’s top-tier chips, the H20 still enables significant AI capabilities.
The Trump administration imposed stricter export controls requiring special licenses for H20 shipments to China, potentially impacting Nvidia’s sales.
China accounted for 13% of Nvidia’s 2024 sales, and the company expects a $5.5 billion revenue loss due to US export restrictions.
This development highlights Nvidia’s evolving strategy amid geopolitical tensions and regulatory challenges.
The exclusion of crypto startups from its accelerator program reflects shifting priorities as Nvidia navigates the intersection of technology, regulation, and international trade.
Disclaimer: The content of this article solely reflects the author's opinion and does not represent the platform in any capacity. This article is not intended to serve as a reference for making investment decisions.
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