Discover Pittsburgh's best accelerators for your start-up

This pivotal organization is dedicated to enhancing the startup and entrepreneurial ecosystem in Southwestern Pennsylvania, positioning the region as a hub for innovative startups and tech investors nationwide. It plays a critical role in injecting capital, business expertise, and resources into companies that promise significant regional economic impact. Since its inception in 1999, over $117 million has been invested in more than 667 companies, leading to 77 exits and generating over $3.3 billion in follow-on investments. Funding for the AlphaLab and AlphaLab Gear accelerators has notably increased to $100,000 per cohort company upon meeting milestone goals. The institution operates across a diverse range of industries, including biotech, clean energy, consumer electronics, fintech, healthcare tech, robotics, and SaaS. Lisa Greenleaf is acknowledged as a key founder, guiding the vision in fostering sustainable growth. The IW+MC Accelerator, part of this initiative, is a six-month program focused on assisting social enterprise leaders in the Baltimore area. It provides tailored support, a structured curriculum, and access to local as well as global mentors, ensuring participants leave with actionable growth plans and refined business strategies.

Innovation Works's Website

This comprehensive initiative focuses on nurturing and accelerating early-stage robotics startups in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Led by Innovation Works and the Pittsburgh Robotics Network, the program benefits from part of the $63 million Build Back Better Regional Challenge grant awarded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration. The Accelerate Program is an intensive six-month engagement, providing startups access to co-working space, manufacturing resources, and a production-grade prototype scale shop. Participants receive personalized coaching tailored to their specific business needs. Noteworthy startups that have emerged from the program include Aquatonomy, which develops underwater intelligence through autonomous robots; Cell X Technologies, innovating stem cell processing with robotics and AI; Grasp Robotics, creating advanced prosthetics with robotic muscles; Leaficient, leveraging computer vision for indoor horticultural lighting; Velo AI, focused on bicycle safety; and Voaige, which develops AI vision software for labor shortages. The initiative encompasses diverse industries, including agriculture tech, artificial intelligence, healthcare tech, logistics and supply chain, and robotics, establishing a robust ecosystem for innovation in the region.

Robotics Factory's Website

The Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse is an organization based in Pittsburgh, PA. It specializes in providing capital investments and tailored business growth services to life sciences startups. The institution collaborates with early-stage companies and university spinouts in the healthcare sector, focusing on areas such as digital health, medical devices, and therapeutics. The accelerator program offered by PLSG is a 13-week intensive initiative aimed at advancing startups' progress towards commercialization through mentoring and educational support. They work closely with experienced mentors, corporate partners, and ecosystem innovators to assist local life science ventures. The organization's expertise lies in technologies with the potential to revolutionize healthcare. Participants in the program benefit from a curated curriculum delivered by industry experts, guidance on developing investor-attractive commercialization plans, and support in overcoming healthcare startup-specific challenges. Notable perks include the opportunity for engagement with mentors, talent, corporate partners, and investors. PLSG primarily focuses on industries such as Biotech and Healthcare Tech.

Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse's Website

AlphaLab Gear is an independent subsidiary accelerator founded in 2013, specializing in hardware, Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics startups. The 30-week program offers up to $100,000 in investment, mentorship from industry experts like Kevin Dowling, Aaron Tainter, and others, as well as networking opportunities. Startups benefit from office space, manufacturing equipment access, and educational sessions. The accelerator is led by key figures like Jessi Mazzoni, Dejana Raggi, Afshan Khan, and Jeff Reed, focusing on domains such as consumer electronics and robotics. Notable founders include Josh McElhattan. Additionally, the organization hosts the annual Hardware Cup, a startup pitch contest awarding $50,000 in investment. With a collaborative workspace that includes artists-in-residence, AlphaLab Gear propels early-stage physical product companies towards successful market entry and scalability.

AlphaLab Gear's Website

AlphaLab Health was a healthcare and life sciences accelerator that supported early-stage tech startups in bringing innovations to market by navigating scientific, clinical, and commercial development risks. The partnership between Innovation Works and Allegheny Health Network leveraged healthcare domain expertise and clinical access from partners like Highmark Health. The program focused on accelerating scientific, clinical, and market validation for healthcare and life science tech companies, specializing in biotech and healthcare tech industries. It offered resources like clinical access, tailored support, and flexible programming, aiming to empower startups in shortening the road to commercialization. Although specific metrics like start-ups associated or funded start-ups are not provided, the accelerator's commitment to providing key resources and guidance to entrepreneurs seeking to make an impact in the health and life sciences space is remarkable. Key people involved include those from Innovation Works and Allegheny Health Network.

AlphaLab Health's Website

An early-stage FinTech incubator located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with additional offices in Miami, it was founded by experienced management consultants to foster innovation in the financial technology sector. The accelerator specializes in investing in pre- or early-revenue FinTech companies, offering seed capital ranging from $25,000 to $1,000,000, with the potential for co-investment from a network of trusted investors, including High Net Worth Individuals, Family Offices, Corporate Strategics, and Venture Capitalists. The organization provides a structured curriculum and infrastructure, facilitating collaboration among entrepreneurs, coders, investors, and technologists. This supportive environment encourages the development of innovative solutions across various domains, including financial services, payment solutions, blockchain, and data analytics. The leadership team comprises notable founders who are committed to guiding portfolio companies and actively participating in their growth. By being part of this ecosystem, startups receive valuable access to resources and expertise that address real-world challenges in the financial industry.

SteelBridge Labs's Website

An early-stage accelerator based in Pittsburgh and Miami, this institution is dedicated to supporting FinTech startups. Founded by industry veterans from SteelBridge Consulting, it aims to create a collaborative ecosystem that equips entrepreneurs with the necessary tools, capital, and guidance to address challenges in the financial services sector through innovative software solutions. The program focuses on pre- and early-revenue companies, providing seed funding ranging from $25,000 to $1,000,000, along with potential co-investment opportunities from a network of high net worth individuals, family offices, corporate strategics, and venture capitalists. Specializing in various domains including FinTech, SaaS, and alternative investments, the accelerator offers a structured curriculum and infrastructure designed to help startups evolve their ideas into viable businesses. It fosters a thriving environment, encouraging collaboration among entrepreneurs, coders, investors, and technologists. Key individuals leading the organization include founders James Haluszczak, Luis Burgos, Tim Haluszczak, and Todd Haring. With a comprehensive support strategy and access to a rich investor network, the institution significantly enhances the likelihood of success for its portfolio companies in the competitive financial technology landscape.

Steel Bridge Labs's Website

This dynamic startup accelerator empowers entrepreneurs by offering a comprehensive suite of resources, including educational programming, mentorship, expert coaching, incubation, and coworking space. The institution fosters business growth across various sectors, particularly focusing on industries such as Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, General Tech, and Software as a Service (SaaS). Their mission is to facilitate scientific development and research projects, exemplified by a GitHub repository template designed to optimize project organization and streamline the development process using Python. Key features of this template include containerization through Docker, virtual environment management with Poetry, automatic code linting and formatting, static type checking with Mypy, and simplified testing via pytest. By providing essential organizational structures and GitHub integration, the organization effectively enhances development efficiency and collaboration for startups. With these resources, it plays a critical role in incubating innovative startups and driving their success in competitive markets.

Ascender's Website

LifeX Labs, founded by Dietrich Stephan, is a biotechnology company in the United States. The organization operates the LifeX Accelerator program, catering to early-stage ventures in the biotech and healthcare tech industries. The accelerator offers a free, 3-month immersive program aimed at ventures focusing on digital health, medical devices, or therapeutics. The Spring 2024 Accelerator program runs from March 19th to June 6th and includes virtual group sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3-5 PM ET. Through specialized support, the program assists ventures in pharma, medical devices, diagnostics, and digital health sectors. Numerous start-ups have benefited from the program, securing follow-on funding through SBIRs, PHDA, and private investments. Participants receive assistance in developing investable commercialization plans, access to a diverse network of experts, and hands-on support from dedicated mentors and interns. Ventures joining the program are expected to have a proof of concept, validated scientific feasibility, and a commitment to securing necessary IP rights. LifeX Labs has garnered praise from past participants like Shawn K. Kelly and Sam Rothstein for its wealth of information and networking opportunities, making it a valuable resource for entrepreneurs in the life sciences field.

LifeX (United States)'s Website

The University of Pittsburgh, a state research university, offers undergraduate, graduate, and other educational services. It hosts the Blast Furnace, a student accelerator program within the Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship's Big Idea Center. This program runs for eight weeks in the summer, focusing on customer discovery and product-market fit to help Pitt students succeed as entrepreneurs. The Blast Furnace supports multiple student-led startups annually, with a goal to enhance their entrepreneurial success. It welcomes students from diverse disciplines, promoting innovation across various fields. Participants benefit from a deep mentor network, inspirational co-working space, a rich curriculum, and hands-on learning. The program also assists students in gauging the viability of their ideas post-graduation. Founded by Hugh Henry Brackenridge, the Blast Furnace at the University of Pittsburgh specializes in industries like Edtech, providing a nurturing environment for student entrepreneurs to thrive with guidance, practical skills, and a supportive community.

University of Pittsburgh - Big Idea Center/Blast Furnace Accelerator​'s Website

The University of Pittsburgh Innovation Institute is a key entity dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the university community. Its mission is to support Pitt innovators by providing education, mentorship, and funding to translate initial ideas into impactful solutions, effectively bridging the gap between research and real-world application. As of fiscal year 2023, the organization has been associated with 267 startups, reported 359 invention disclosures, secured 113 U.S. patents, and granted 150 licenses and options. Key programs such as the Blast Furnace student accelerator offer mentor networks, co-working spaces, and a curriculum designed to prepare startups for success. The Pitt Innovation Challenge (PInCh) accelerates bold health-related ideas, while the Pitt Ventures Startup Academy provides tailored guidance for faculty and staff to commercialize intellectual property within a 12 to 18-month timeframe. Specializing in various domains including healthcare, technology, and engineering, it encourages interdisciplinary collaboration. Additionally, the institution facilitates industry engagement, networking, and funding opportunities, making it a dynamic hub that empowers innovators and drives meaningful solutions. Founded by Hugh Henry Brackenridge, it carries a rich legacy in promoting entrepreneurship.

University of Pittsburgh Innovation Institute's Website

This dynamic startup incubator and educational hub, located in Pittsburgh, is committed to empowering entrepreneurs to launch, build, and grow their businesses. The accelerator runs a comprehensive year-long program specifically designed to equip participants with essential tools for sustainable business development. It supports numerous startups annually across various industries, including software, hardware, retail, healthcare, education, ecommerce, fintech, and social media. Each participant can receive up to $5,000 in equity-free funding, along with one-on-one business coaching from an Entrepreneur-in-Residence, and unlimited access to educational programming tailored to their individual needs. They benefit from a collaborative coworking space available 24/7, technical support for branding and marketing, and connections to an extensive mentor community. Furthermore, the program fosters networking opportunities with a strong alumni network of successful graduates. Entrepreneurs are connected with valuable resources and exposure through digital platforms, ensuring they are well-prepared to navigate the challenges of the entrepreneurial landscape.

Ascender (Pittsburgh)'s Website

This city-led startup accelerator based in Pittsburgh is dedicated to fostering innovation and development in urban services. The program spans three to four months and specifically connects local startups with city authorities, enabling them to test their products and services in real-world settings. The initiative aims to propel startups from early to growth stages by addressing several priority areas: process improvement and optimization, sustainability and environment, equity and inclusion, and health and safety. Past cohort members have included innovative companies such as AiMiL, which partnered with the Department of Innovation & Performance, Qarar with the Office of Management and Budget, and Velo with the Department of Mobility & Infrastructure. Additional benefits for participating startups include opportunities for networking, valuable feedback, and the chance to pilot solutions that enhance city services. The program actively seeks to innovate local government operations by incorporating new technologies that promote efficiency, transparency, sustainability, and inclusiveness. It supports industries such as Environmental Tech, Healthcare Tech, and Renewable Energy, positioning itself as a crucial driver of positive change within the City of Pittsburgh.

PGH Lab's Website

Coal Hill Ventures is a pioneering accelerator and venture capital firm based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializing in the investment of ambitious deep tech companies. Founded by Managing Director Christopher Moehle, the firm emerged from Carnegie Mellon's renowned robotics lab, positioning itself at the forefront of the robotics revolution. The organization aims to catalyze industrial transformations by supporting startups that harness cutting-edge technologies in robotics and artificial intelligence. Emphasizing collaboration between humans and machines, this philosophy is integral to its investment strategy. Recognizing Pittsburgh's dense talent pool in advanced robotics, it is committed to leveraging this resource for transformative impact. The firm remains dedicated to fostering innovation in key domains, including Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and SaaS (Software as a Service). The name 'Coal Hill' pays homage to Mount Washington, a historic landmark integral to the citys legacy and the global steel industry.

Coal Hill Ventures's Website

The organization is a technology incubator that primarily supports fintech startups, specializing in industries such as delivery services, logistics and supply chain, and renewable energy. Founded by David Passavant, it is dedicated to fostering innovation and developing advanced solutions in urban mobility and technology. The institution collaborates with a diverse network of partners including cities, research institutions, and corporations to implement impactful pilots aimed at enhancing urban mobility. Notable initiatives include the Move PGH pilot addressing mobility insecurity in Pittsburgh and the Detroit Bike Challenge focused on promoting e-bikes. Additionally, the company leads multiple working groups and coalitions that delve into topics like micromobility and data privacy. By providing valuable resources such as practical guides on measuring accessibility and community-first mobility playbooks, they equip startups with the tools necessary for success. The accelerator emphasizes a collaborative approach, leveraging its extensive network and expertise to drive the mobility sector forward.

numo's Website

An initiative dedicated to fostering diverse talent and promoting equity within the Pittsburgh region's workforce, it aims to increase diversity by attracting, retaining, and promoting individuals from various backgrounds. The program offers mentorship opportunities for college students, connecting them with seasoned business professionals who guide their career exploration and development. Additionally, the organization supports diverse communities through mini grants that fund projects, events, and collaborations focused on enhancing inclusivity. While specific metrics regarding the number of startups or investors involved are not publicly available, it is recognized for its impact in fostering connections, mentorship, and community collaboration. The program addresses a range of industries, including biotech, edtech, fintech, general tech, and healthcare tech. By enhancing networking opportunities and providing access to valuable resources, this initiative plays a pivotal role in cultivating an equitable and inclusive business environment in the region, thereby setting a foundation for a forward-looking workforce.

Vibrant Pittsburgh Connection Accelerator's Website