Meta launches program to encourage startups to use its Llama AI models

Meta is introducing "Llama for Startups," an initiative designed to support U.S.-based companies developing generative AI using its Llama models. Eligible applicants must have under $10 million in funding, at least one developer, and focus on AI applications. The program offers up to $6k per month for six months to offset costs. Meta aims to leverage this effort against competitors like DeepSeek, Google, and Alibaba while addressing setbacks with model performance and infrastructure costs expected to exceed $1 billion this year.