- Nvidia's Inception program has updated its eligibility criteria to exclude crypto-focused startups, signaling a shift from its earlier openness to blockchain ventures.
- The policy change comes amid broader geopolitical pressures and Nvidia's strategic pivot toward AI, as it braces for a potential $5.5 billion revenue hit due to US export controls.
Nvidia’s global accelerator initiative, known as the Inception program, appears to be distancing itself from crypto-focused startups. As per the company’s official website, digital asset firms are listed among five categories of businesses that are ineligible to participate.
Other excluded groups include consulting and outsourced development firms, cloud service providers, resellers and distributors, and publicly listed companies.
This development marks a notable shift in Nvidia’s approach toward crypto-related ventures.
Back in 2018, the tech company had welcomed blockchain-AI hybrid startup Ubex into the program. The current exclusion suggests a possible change in policy or strategic direction.
The Inception program is targeted at startups less than a decade old, regardless of their funding stage. It is designed to support emerging companies in sectors such as artificial intelligence, data science, and computing through technical assistance, go-to-market support, and networking opportunities.
Nvidia declined to provide a comment on its eligibility policy when contacted.
The company has long been a prominent player in the semiconductor space, with its graphics processing units (GPUs) being widely used in both data centers and cryptocurrency mining. Although Nvidia has previously explored blockchain applications, its recent policy could signal a narrowed focus on sectors like AI and cloud infrastructure.
“Crypto companies and four other types of businesses are excluded from participating in Nvidia's Inception,” the program’s website states, outlining the current restrictions.
Meanwhile, Nvidia continues to hold a significant position in the global AI race. The company’s H20 chip, launched in 2024, was developed to comply with export controls set by the Biden administration aimed at curbing China’s access to high-performance AI chips. Despite being less powerful than Nvidia’s flagship products, the H20 still enables notable AI capabilities.
However, further regulatory constraints imposed under the Trump administration have introduced licensing requirements for H20 exports to China. These restrictions are expected to impact Nvidia’s revenue, with the company forecasting a potential $5.5 billion decline. According to a report by the BBC, China made up 13% of Nvidia’s total sales in 2024.
Edited by Harshajit Sarmah
