Artificial intelligence continues to reshape the technology landscape, but one venture capital firm believes the next major transformation will go beyond individual AI tools.
Instead, it expects the biggest changes to come from how businesses are created, operated, and connected within entirely new economic systems.
Betaworks Unveils New Camp Theme
New York-based venture capital firm Betaworks has officially opened applications for the Fall 2026 edition of its startup accelerator, Camp.
This year’s program will center on a theme the firm calls “The New Agentic Economy,” reflecting its belief that autonomous AI agents will fundamentally change how organizations function and how value is created across industries.
The program is designed for founders and startups exploring the future of AI-driven systems, particularly those building products and services that leverage autonomous agents to perform increasingly complex tasks.
A Shift Beyond AI Applications
According to Betaworks, the rise of AI agents represents more than just another technological advancement.
The firm argues that the deeper opportunity lies in the restructuring of businesses themselves.
Rather than focusing solely on smarter software, the accelerator will examine how companies can be built differently when intelligent agents become an integral part of everyday operations.
This perspective suggests a future where economic systems, workflows, and organizational structures are increasingly powered by autonomous technologies capable of making decisions, coordinating activities, and executing tasks with minimal human intervention.
Applications Open Through July
Entrepreneurs interested in participating can submit applications immediately.
The priority application deadline is July 24, while the final deadline for submissions is July 31.
Selected startups will take part in the program this fall in New York City, where founders will have access to mentorship, resources, and connections within the broader Betaworks network.
A Long History of Backing Emerging Technologies
Founded by entrepreneur and investor John Borthwick and currently led alongside partner Jordan Crook, Betaworks became known for pioneering the “build and invest” model.
The firm gained recognition through early investments in companies such as Tumblr and Giphy during the early days of the modern internet.
Over the years, the firm has developed a reputation for identifying emerging technology trends and helping founders turn experimental ideas into scalable businesses.
Camp’s Track Record Since 2016
Since its launch in 2016, Camp has focused each cohort around a specific technology theme.
The inaugural class included AI company Hugging Face, which has since become one of the most influential players in the AI ecosystem.
Subsequent cohorts explored areas such as computer vision, synthetic media, vertical AI applications, native AI interfaces, and agent-based systems.
With the upcoming Fall 2026 session, Betaworks is continuing that tradition by placing its attention on what it sees as the next evolution of artificial intelligence-driven innovation.
As interest in autonomous AI agents accelerates across the technology industry, the latest Camp cohort aims to help founders build businesses that can thrive in an economy increasingly shaped by intelligent digital agents.
