OpenAI and thailand launch AI accelerator to boost startup innovation

OpenAI and Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) have launched an eight-week AI accelerator to support Thai startups in transforming prototypes into viable products. The initiative, known as the OpenAI x MHESI AI Accelerator, involves ten startups across health, wellness, and education, marking OpenAI’s first public-private partnership with the Thai government. The program includes collaboration with the National Innovation Agency (NIA), Mahidol University, and Techsauce. The accelerator aims to help startups refine their products through mentorship, technical guidance, and access to OpenAI’s latest models. Startups will receive $2,000 in API credits, one-on-one mentorship, and training in product design, engineering, and responsible AI. MHESI will connect teams with research networks, while NIA will link them to funding and growth opportunities. The program concludes with a Demo Day in November, where startups will showcase their progress and plans for deployment. Participants include companies like CARIVA, which is developing a multilingual voice agent for hospitals, and Curico, focused on AI-powered learning tools for children and educators. The accelerator seeks to establish a sustainable model for Thai founders to build trusted AI products with global potential.