Payments infrastructure provider Paddle has launched a new programme to help software founders build, launch and scale their artificial intelligence (AI) businesses ideas.

AI Launchpad will last for six weeks during which participants will work with industry experts to get tailored guidance and practical insight into their chosen market.

Participants in the scheme will also have the chance to win $25,000, which will be awarded to the best offering as judged by a panel of experts.

Around 25 founders will be accepted onto the programme based on their business idea, their product and their ability to demonstrate its growth potential and market traction.

As part of the programme Founderpath, a $150 million fund for software as a service (SaaS) founders, has allocated $10 million in funding for selected participants who have completed the programme.

Commenting on the launch, Christian Owens, founder and executive chairman of Paddle, said the programme would give the next generations the knowledge and skills they needed to achieve and sustain growth.

"2023 has seen a generative AI boom, with companies in the space securing $1.3bn in the last few months,” said Owens. “However, having a great product is just the first challenge in a very competitive space.

“No matter how smart your AI tool, you won't be able to scale your company to its full potential without the right growth strategies and infrastructure in place.”

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