Meta is launching a new program called Llama for Startups, which aims to encourage the adoption of its Llama AI models among small and medium-sized companies. The program provides direct support from Meta’s Llama team and up to $6,000 per month for six months to help startups offset the costs of building generative AI solutions.
To be eligible, US-based firms must meet certain criteria, including being incorporated, having raised less than $10 million in funding, and having at least one developer on staff. The deadline for application is May 30.
The program launch comes as Meta competes with rivals like DeepSeek, Google, and Alibaba’s Qwen in the open model space. However, Llama has faced setbacks in recent months, including a delayed rollout of its flagship AI model, Llama 4 Behemoth, due to concerns over underperformance on key benchmarks.
Despite these challenges, Meta remains committed to its generative AI ambitions, with predictions of $2 billion to $3 billion in revenue for its products by 2025 and up to $1.4 trillion by 2035. The company plans to increase its investment in capital expenditures, including new data centers, and has launched an API for customizing Llama releases.
The program is expected to help foster innovation in the AI space, as Meta continues to build its lead in the competitive market.
Source: https://techcrunch.com/2025/05/21/meta-launches-program-to-encourage-startups-to-use-its-llama-ai-models