Northern Data Group launches global AI Accelerator programme
Northern Data Group, a provider of High-Performance Computing (HPC) solutions, has announced the launch of its AI Accelerator programme. This global initiative will offer select startup businesses complimentary access to Nvidia H100 Tensor Core GPUs, renowned for their ultra-fast computing capabilities. The AI Accelerator aims to democratise access to AI technology, ensuring that innovation is not confined to the resources of major tech companies.
Selected startups will be provided with Nvidia HGX H100 GPU servers connected via Nvidia Quantum-2 InfiniBand networking. This powerful combination will enable them to harness advanced AI solutions, including fine-tuning, quantisation, and retrieval-augmented generation techniques. A commitment to sustainability underscores the initiative, as the computing power will be sourced from 100% carbon-free energy and supported by expert engineers from Northern Data.
In addition to access to cutting-edge hardware, the AI Accelerator programme will offer mentoring sessions from Northern Data’s leadership and industry representatives from companies such as Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) and Supermicro. Participants will also benefit from dedicated access to Nvidia’s Deep Learning Institute programme, workshops focusing on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations in AI led by Deloitte, and guidance on navigating the investment landscape from a top investment bank.
Northern Data Group operates Taiga Cloud, Europe’s largest and cleanest GenAI Cloud Service Provider (CSP). The company was one of the first in Europe to deploy Nvidia H100 Tensor Core GPUs. With the AI Accelerator, Northern Data Group expands the reach of its HPC solutions to innovative startups, fostering an environment where impactful AI concepts can flourish irrespective of the financial capabilities of the entities driving them.
Encouraging applications from AI and machine learning-focused startups across all sectors; Northern Data Group emphasises the potential for rapid scalability and significant impact on the AI industry as key selection criteria. A panel of industry leaders will review applications to ensure that the most promising ideas receive the support they need to evolve into viable products.
Aroosh Thillainathan, Founder and CEO of Northern Data Group, expressed enthusiasm for the launch: “We’re excited to be launching our AI Accelerator, which supports startups at the forefront of AI-driven innovation globally. Innovation Bravery is a core value for Northern Data Group, and I am proud to be supporting other entrepreneurs and innovators who are pushing the boundaries of what AI can deliver. Democratising access to AI technology is hugely important to ensure that organisations of all sizes have the opportunity to propel forward innovative ideas into practical proof of concepts and applications. These advancements can, in turn, significantly impact the future of our industry and beyond.”
Suresh Babu, Senior Vice President and General Manager of HPC and AI GTM at HPE, remarked, “HPE is proud to deepen our partnership with Northern Data Group, which includes delivering HPE Cray XD solutions to bolster AI innovation, to support the launch of its inaugural AI Accelerator. We look forward to mentoring future AI leaders to fast-track their innovation and experience what’s possible with access to HPC power.”
Dr Kunbin Hong, General Manager of Solutions EMEA at Supermicro, added, “Northern Data Group's AI Accelerator brings together a hugely impactful collection of businesses from across the AI ecosystem, and our team at Supermicro is delighted to be a part of it. We'll be joining the panel of respected industry leaders to review applications and offer mentoring sessions for those selected. Unlocking opportunities for startups to explore the full potential of AI is critical for the future of our industry, and the AI Accelerator is a reflection of this in action."
