NVIDIA Bars Crypto Startups From Inception Accelerator Program

• NVIDIA probably wants to avoid potential regulation issues in the crypto sector
• Also excluded are consulting firms, cloud service providers, resellers, distributors, and publicly listed companies
• It’s likely that NVIDIA aims to completely focus on AI, a sector with huge growth potential

In a twist reflecting shifting tech priorities, NVIDIA—whose hardware fueled crypto mining booms—is now barring crypto startups from its key Inception support program. This exclusion from the AI-focused initiative hints at deeper concerns about regulation or the volatile digital asset market, even as it cuts off a potential source of vital resources for Web3 innovators.

The program is designed to support startups by providing benefits such as technical tools, training, preferred pricing on hardware and software, and opportunities to connect with NVIDIA’s network of venture capital firms. Eligible startups must be officially incorporated, less than 10 years old, and employ at least one developer.

Crypto startups now face a tougher road, losing access to NVIDIA’s hardware, mentorship, and funding networks, which may widen the gap between AI and Web3 ecosystems. 

The program also excludes consulting firms, cloud service providers, resellers, distributors, and publicly listed companies.

Why Might NVIDIA Be Avoiding Crypto Companies?

The exact reason for banning crypto startups from its accelerator program is unknown, but there are probably several factors influencing the company’s decision. Apart from regulation uncertainty, the crypto market has been especially volatile in the last month or so, with Bitcoin dropping to $75k several weeks ago, rising to $94k yesterday, and now dropping to $92k. Other cryptocurrencies had similar ups and downs, mostly due to Trump’s tariff policies.

Also, back in 2022, NVIDIA paid a $5.5 million fine to the SEC for not disclosing that a big portion of its gaming revenue was actually from crypto miners. It’s plausible that the company doesn’t want any SEC scrutiny again for anything crypto-related.

Then, being a key player in the AI world, it’s likely that NVIDIA wants to completely focus on AI, a sector with huge growth potential. By reallocating resources to AI-focused startups, the company can aim to strengthen its position in this domain.

NVIDIA’s Shifting Stance on Crypto

It’s a bit ironic to see the tech giant pull away from crypto startups, considering the company has played a massive role in the crypto mining space, particularly due to its high-performance GPUs. In 2021, NVIDIA even launched CMP (Cryptocurrency Mining Processor) cards to separate gaming and mining use cases.

In any case, for cryptocurrency startups, NVIDIA’s policy change will limit access to valuable resources and support available through the Inception program. As such, these startups will have to seek alternative avenues for support and collaboration.