Amazon Launchpad helps startups get products to customers
If you're an inventor, then your expertise probably lies in developing hardware and software rather than knowing the ins-and-outs of the logistics business. Amazon is hoping to help these individuals with Launchpad, a system that lets startups harness the company's vast marketing and transportation resources. Essentially, if you run a venture capital-backed startup or have made a splash on Indiegogo, then you can send Amazon a box of devices and Jeff Bezos will take care of the rest. For instance, Launchpad will be one of the first places that you can buy Thync's mood-changing wearable and Eero's distributed WiFi hardware.
It's not the first time that Amazon has made overtures towards the startup community in recent months since it launched a store specifically for crowdfunding successes back in March. Launchpad, by comparison, is designed for even younger firms, and will accept signups from businesses that are up to three months away from being able to launch their first product. In addition, once the first consignment of devices arrive at an Amazon fulfillment center, they'll be enrolled into the Prime program for fast shipping. For inventors who would otherwise struggle to get their creations out to the world, Launchpad seems like an ideal solution although, for now, you have to apply and hope that the company's moderators approve of your idea.
