The Mozilla Builders Accelerator funds and supports impactful projects that are vital to the open source AI ecosystem. Selected projects will receive up to $100,000 in non-dilutive funding and engage in a focused 12-week program.
Applications are now open!
Program begins September 12th, 2024
Our inaugural theme is Local AI, which focuses on running AI models and applications directly on personal devices such as laptops, smartphones, or edge devices, rather than relying on cloud-based services.
Local AI represents a transformative approach to AI deployment, providing significant benefits in terms of privacy, cost efficiency, cultural relevance, and system reliability.
For more information on Local AI and the opportunities for innovation, check out our explainer here.
The accelerator consists of a 12-week program focused on the design, build, and test phases of the proposed projects, followed by an alumni phase to provide sustained community and support. At the end of the program, participants will have developed a proof of concept for a new product or project, significant enhancements to the sustainability or quality of an existing project, or the creation of new capabilities extending from an existing project.
Each participant in the Mozilla Builders Accelerator is eligible to receive up to $100,000 in non-dilutive funding, contingent upon participation in the program. This substantial financial support is designed to empower participants to fully engage with their projects without the stress of funding constraints.
The program fosters a vibrant community atmosphere, encouraging participants to share ideas, form strategic partnerships, and drive the growth and adoption of their projects. Participants will have access to Mozilla's ecosystem, which includes a wide array of people, partners, and organizations committed to open source innovation.
Throughout the accelerator, participants will benefit from guidance and mentorship from seasoned experts in AI, open source, and related fields. This includes personalized project development support and the opportunity to learn from leading open source partners and organizations within Mozilla's extensive network.
To amplify their impact, participants will have multiple opportunities to increase their project's visibility through Mozilla’s various channels and events. The program culminates in a Demo Day, where participants can showcase their achievements to a broader audience, gaining recognition and potentially attracting further support and collaboration.
The program is open to individuals, teams, or organizations. Projects accepted into the program must have:
• A project that fits within the definition of Local AI.
• A clear open source license.
• A commitment from participants to actively participate in the program on a full time basis.
You must be able to attend both the in person Kick Off starting on Sep 12, 2024 as well as the in person Demo Day on Dec 5, 2024.
Yes
Yes
Yes, we consider applicants who want to leave academia or take a break to become full time participants.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis so it benefits you to apply early. If your application is promising, we'll invite you to an interview after which we will email you our decision.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. If you apply by the July 8th early application deadline, you will receive a response before August 1st, 2024. Applicants that apply by August 1st will be notified by August 31st, 2024 or earlier.
We are interested in local open source projects with a clear vision and deliverables focused on:
• Fine-tuning
• RAG
• Function calling
• Evaluation
• Developer productivity
• Agents
• Generative UI
We encourage participants to bring unique viewpoints and expertise. For more information on Local AI and the opportunities for innovation, check out our explainer: Announcing Mozilla Builders
Funding amounts are determined by the size of a project and team. Ultimately we are interested in ensuring that there is sufficient funding to successfully complete your project by the end of the accelerator. Be sure to be clear about the scope and deliverables of your project in your application.
Funding, credits, 1 meeting with Mozilla VC, support from our experts and community.
• Attend all weekly programming and be an active and engaged participant in the community.
• Attend the in person program Kick Off September 12th and Demo Day December 5th. Locations to be determined.
• Work on your project full-time during the program. This time commitment is inclusive of weekly programming.
• Complete your project by the end of the program.
• Contribute your insights to the larger Builders community through our blog and discord.
A remote 12 week program beginning September 12th, 2024 with our in person kick-off and ending December 5th, 2024 for our in-person demo day.
Mix of group programming, 1:1s and mentorship. Milestone based check ins.
Mozilla AI Discord is the destination for open source AI developers with resources, updates and inspiration for your projects.