Discover California's best accelerators for your start-up

Choose an accelerator/incubator that provides your start-up with the right guidance to scale with confidence.

Want a curated list of free resources shared at the world’s best accelerators?

Choosing The Right Accelerator

Start-ups are hard. Choose an accelerator that guides you in the right direction.

Patrick Collison, Founder of Stripe

"I doubt that Stripe would have worked without YC. It's that simple."

Patrick Collison, Founder, Stripe

Chris Lynch, Founder of Atlas Venture

"Accelerators claim they are in it for the long haul — I call bullshit"

Chris Lynch, Founder, Atlas Venture

Raj Aggarwal, Founder of Localytics

"The network we built with Techstars was incredibly valuable during and after the program."

Raj Aggarwal, Founder, Localytics

What truly matters

Do they really value your time?

Understand your equity’s true worth

Mentor quality over quantity

Do they know why they succeeded in the past?

Discover your perfect match

No accelerator or incubator is perfect for every start-up. Your business’s context and constraints matter. Identify your perfect match by answering this short questionnaire.

California's Top Accelerators By Neighborhoods

Comparing Accelerators

NameAerial ScoreStandard DealAddress#Investments#ExitsDetails
Y Combinator9.9$500K for 7% equity on a SAFE580 20th St, San Francisco, CA 94107, USA4,129389Learn more
Techstars Space Accelerator9.9$120K for 6% equityLos Angeles, CA, USA6,002475Learn more
Techstars Los Angeles Accelerator9.9$120K for 6% equityLos Angeles, CA, USA6,002475Learn more
Techstars Future of Ecommerce powered by eBay9.9$120K for 6% equitySan Francisco, CA, USA6,002475Learn more
Techstars Oakland by JP Morgan9.9$120K for 6% equityOakland, CA, USA6,002475Learn more
Techstars Los Angeles Powered by J.P. Morgan9.9$120K for 6% equityLos Angeles, CA, USA6,002475Learn more
500 Startups - San Francisco Accelerator9.9$150K for 6% equitySilicon Valley, CA, USA3,103372Learn more
500 Startups9.9$150K for 6% equityCalifornia, USA2,676312Learn more
Plug and Play9.7Sunnyvale, CA, USA1,801164Learn more
Plug and Play Startup Camp9.7$25K-$500KCalifornia, USA1,801164Learn more
PlugAndPlay - Insurtech Accelerator9.7440 N Wolfe Rd, Sunnyvale, CA 94085, USA1,801164Learn more
PlugAndPlay - Internet of Things Accelerator9.7440 N Wolfe Rd, Sunnyvale, CA 94085, USA1,801164Learn more
PlugAndPlay - Brand and Retail Accelerator9.7440 N Wolfe Rd, Sunnyvale, CA 94085, USA1,801164Learn more
PlugAndPlay - FinTech Accelerator9.7440 N Wolfe Rd, Sunnyvale, CA 94085, USA1,801164Learn more
PlugAndPlay - Travel and Hospitality9.7440 N Wolfe Rd, Sunnyvale, CA 94085, USA1,801164Learn more
PlugAndPlay - Supply Chain Accelerator9.7440 N Wolfe Rd, Sunnyvale, CA 94085, USA1,801164Learn more
PlugAndPlay - Health Accelerator9.7440 N Wolfe Rd, Sunnyvale, CA 94085, USA1,801164Learn more
PlugAndPlay - Real Estate and Construction9.7440 N Wolfe Rd, Sunnyvale, CA 94085, USA1,801164Learn more
PlugAndPlay - Food and Beverage Accelerator9.7440 N Wolfe Rd, Sunnyvale, CA 94085, USA1,801164Learn more
Plug and Play Tech Center9.3440 N Wolfe Rd, Sunnyvale, CA 94085, USA1,285116Learn more

This page covers the top accelerators and incubators in California.

However if geography isn’t a hard constraint, and you are only looking for the best incubators and accelerators across the US, check here.

Brief Overview Of Different Accelerators

1) Y Combinator

Y Combinator - supporting founders in their growth journey

Y Combinator is a prestigious startup accelerator based in Mountain View, California, originally founded in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 2005. The organization operates two three-month programs each year, with the first batch running from January through March and the second from July through September. During these cycles, they invest $500,000 in startups, which is structured as $125,000 on a post-money safe for 7% equity and $375,000 on an uncapped safe with a Most Favored Nation provision. The program supports a diverse range of industries, including technology, healthcare, fintech, and ecommerce, making it accessible to various startup domains. With a remarkable alumni network of over 2,830 companies by 2021of which more than 80% remained active, had been acquired, or gone publicthis accelerator has played a crucial role in the success of many entrepreneurial ventures. The founders include notable figures such as Jessica Livingston, Robert Morris, and Trevor Blackwell. The dynamic environment fosters collaboration and mentorship, with group office hours where founders can receive personalized guidance from experienced investors, contributing to the institution's reputation as a powerhouse in startup funding.

Y Combinator's Website
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2) Techstars Space Accelerator

Techstars Space Accelerator - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

Based in Los Angeles, this pioneering program focuses on the emerging realm of space technology and related frontier industries. Running in partnership with the United States Space Force and NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, it encourages startups from adjacent sectors such as automotive, agriculture, and manufacturing to apply, particularly those seeking access to the aerospace market. The initiative places a strong emphasis on technologies applicable to both commercial space endeavors and the aerospace sector, including fields like autonomy and robotics. Spanning 13 weeks, selected companies receive $120,000 in exchange for 6% equity, along with invaluable resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities from leading figures in the aerospace industry. Applications for the 2024 cohort opened on May 22, 2024, with a deadline of September 9, 2024, and the program commences on December 5, 2024. Notable alumni such as Pixxel, Slingshot, and Keppler reflect the success in nurturing innovation within the space sector. The founding team includes industry leaders like Brad Feld and David Cohen, all committed to advancing the landscape of space technology and exploration.

Techstars Space Accelerator's Website
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3) Techstars Los Angeles Accelerator

Techstars Los Angeles Accelerator - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

This premier mentorship-driven program is located in one of the most vibrant tech ecosystems in the United States. Spanning 13 weeks, it supports startups from various sectors, including healthcare, B2B SaaS, FinTech, renewable energy, and logistics. Each cohort typically includes 12 innovative startups selected for their potential to address significant challenges and enhance everyday life. Emphasizing inclusivity, the initiative particularly focuses on Black, Hispanic and Latino, Indigenous American, and Pacific Islander entrepreneurs. Participants receive $120,000 in exchange for 6% equity, along with seed funding tailored to their progress. They gain access to a vast network of mentors, industry experts, and peers. The program facilitates growth through advantages such as office space in Los Angeles, resources for networking, and the opportunity to pitch to potential investors on Demo Day. Established by notable figures like Brad Feld and David Cohen, it accelerates the development of early-stage startups, fostering innovation that aims to transform various facets of business and society. The organization plays a crucial role in overcoming barriers and elevating diverse founders in the fast-evolving tech landscape.

Techstars Los Angeles Accelerator's Website
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4) Techstars Future of Ecommerce powered by eBay

Techstars Future of Ecommerce powered by eBay - connecting start-up founders with success

This 13-week accelerator program based in San Francisco aims at supporting startups focused on innovative technologies that significantly influence the future of ecommerce. It concentrates on areas including artificial intelligence, Web3, privacy, security, and infrastructure, positioning participants to excel in an evolving market. Founders gain invaluable access to a network of mentors, thought leaders, and investors from both the institution and eBay, enhancing their chances for success. Each startup receives early-stage VC funding of $120,000 in exchange for 6% equity. The inaugural Fall Class of 2023 showcased a diverse cohort of startups exemplifying the program's commitment to equitable access and innovation. Key figures associated with the organization include founders such as Brad Feld, Chisa Egbelu, Daniel Mason, David Brown, David Cohen, and Jared Polis. Ultimately, the accelerator aims to empower startups through strategic resources, culminating in a Demo Day where participants present their progress to potential investors and partners, thereby driving innovation in the global ecommerce landscape.

Techstars Future of Ecommerce powered by eBay's Website
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5) Techstars Oakland by JP Morgan

Techstars Oakland by JP Morgan - building California's entrepreneurial future

A prominent startup accelerator, this organization is dedicated to supporting innovative founders from diverse backgrounds. The program aims to unlock opportunities for overlooked and underestimated entrepreneurs in sectors like Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, HealthTech, EdTech, and ClimateTech. The Spring 2024 class will comprise 24 startups that are deeply connected to their customers and committed to continuous learning. The accelerator runs for 13 weeks, starting on May 30, 2024, with a demo day scheduled for March 2024. The application period opens on September 12, 2023, and closes on March 11, 2024. By offering access to an extensive network of successful founders, mentors, and universities, the program fosters genuine connections with Silicon Valley. Key figures such as Brad Feld, Chisa Egbelu, Daniel Mason, David Brown, David Cohen, and Jared Polis are instrumental in its operation. This institution focuses not only on transformative technologies but also on equitable access to funding and support for entrepreneurs from various backgrounds, reinforcing its commitment to dismantling systemic barriers in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Techstars Oakland by JP Morgan's Website
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6) Techstars Los Angeles Powered by J.P. Morgan

Techstars Los Angeles Powered by J.P. Morgan - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

An inclusive accelerator focused on empowering founders from diverse backgrounds, particularly Black, Hispanic and Latino, Indigenous American, and Pacific Islander entrepreneurs. The program spans approximately 13 weeks and encourages startups in a wide range of sectors including healthcare, wellness, B2B SaaS, deep tech, energy, robotics, fintech, mobility, logistics, proptech, consumer packaged goods, and climate tech. Participants benefit from game-changing investment community partnerships designed to dismantle institutional, structural, and systematic barriers that limit opportunities for underrepresented founders. Each accelerator cohort receives $120,000 in funding for 6% equity, access to invaluable mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs and industry experts, as well as resources to facilitate rapid growth. The program culminates in a Demo Day, where startups present their innovations to potential investors and partners. Notable figures associated with the institution include co-founders Brad Feld and David Cohen, among others. This accelerator not only focuses on innovation and growth but also emphasizes the creation of a supportive community where entrepreneurs can connect and thrive.

Techstars Los Angeles Powered by J.P. Morgan's Website
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7) 500 Startups - San Francisco Accelerator

500 Startups - San Francisco Accelerator - supporting California's best founders

The prestigious 16-week startup program is designed to elevate early-stage technology companies. As part of the 500 Global venture capital firm, it has a robust background managing over $2.4 billion in assets, focusing on rapidly growing technology startups. Founders benefit from a standard investment of $150,000 for a 6% equity stake, along with an additional participation fee of $37,500 that can be deducted from this investment. The program boasts a rich curriculum featuring expert-led sessions on essential business topics such as marketing, finance, and product design, offering an experience likened to a transformative learning journey.

500 Startups - San Francisco Accelerator's Website
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8) 500 Startups

500 Startups - building California's entrepreneurial future

500 Global is a prominent venture capital firm with assets exceeding $2.4 billion, specializing in investments for founders building fast-growing technology companies. Based in San Francisco, California, its flagship accelerator program spans four months and provides startups a $150,000 investment in exchange for a 6% equity stake. The program is renowned for its extensive curriculum that covers essential business topics such as marketing, product design, and finance, complemented by hands-on support in business strategy and investor pitching. Founders benefit from a robust community comprising over 1,000 peers and 200 mentors, fostering valuable networking opportunities. The firm has historically invested in a wide range of industries, including consumer electronics, fintech, healthcare technology, and SaaS. Co-founders Brian Curliss, Christine Tsai, and Dave McClure have been instrumental in shaping its vision and growth. Startups within the program also enjoy additional advantages, such as office space, mentorship, and enhanced connectivity to investors and potential customers.

500 Startups's Website
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9) Plug and Play

Plug and Play - connecting start-up founders with success

This international startup accelerator, headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, was established in 1990. It serves as a vital link between startups and large corporations, focusing on catalyzing technological advancement by connecting blue-chip companies with innovative startups across various industries. The organization runs over 100 industry-focused programs across 50 global locations, each lasting three months. Startups benefit from various resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities, including workshops and mentoring sessions designed to accelerate their growth. Key industries include Advanced Manufacturing, Fintech, Health, Robotics, and Smart Cities. It invests in over 250 companies annually in collaboration with premier venture capitalists. The accelerator also offers a collaborative co-working community in Silicon Valley, where startups can engage with leading corporates, venture capitalists, and industry experts. Founded by Ali Safavi, Jackie Hernandez, Jojo Flores, and Saeed Amidi, the institution is recognized as a crucial player in fostering innovation, enabling startups to thrive and forge meaningful connections in the business ecosystem.

Plug and Play's Website
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10) Plug and Play Startup Camp

Plug and Play Startup Camp - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

The distinguished 10-week accelerator program is designed to immerse startups and entrepreneurs in the dynamic environment of Silicon Valley. Since its inception in 2006, it has successfully accelerated numerous startups by connecting them with over 400 major corporate partners, fostering innovation across various sectors, including Ecommerce, Fintech, General Tech, and Healthcare Tech. This program provides intensive support and resources while facilitating investor relations, with investments ranging from $25,000 to $500,000 without requiring equity from the startups. Participants gain valuable exposure through private dealflow sessions with corporate decision-makers, enhancing their business network and client pipeline. The founders have established a robust ecosystem that offers specialized mentorship and investment opportunities aimed at empowering startups to disrupt their respective industries. Moreover, successful startups have the chance to participate in global exposure initiatives, such as the Global Overseas Acceleration & Learning program (GOAL), further expanding their reach and potential within the entrepreneurial landscape.

Plug and Play Startup Camp's Website
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11) PlugAndPlay - Insurtech Accelerator

PlugAndPlay - Insurtech Accelerator - supporting founders in their growth journey

This leading innovation platform aims to revolutionize the insurance industry by connecting startups with established insurers. It includes 35 insurtech companies within its program and encompasses a broader participation of 150 startups, all engaged in a rigorous three-month business development initiative. The initiative addresses several key focus areas within the insurance sector, including fraud detection, process automation, data enrichment, customer experience, and underwriting products, among others. Startups benefit significantly by networking with over 280 corporate partners and exploring the transformative potential of AI in insurance. Founded by Ali Safavi, Jackie Hernandez, Jojo Flores, and Saeed Amidi, the program fosters collaboration not just in insurance but also across industries such as artificial intelligence, fintech, healthcare tech, and logistics. The organization is committed to driving innovation and ensuring the insurance landscape evolves in alignment with contemporary needs and technological advancements.

PlugAndPlay - Insurtech Accelerator's Website
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12) PlugAndPlay - Internet of Things Accelerator

PlugAndPlay - Internet of Things Accelerator - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

Founded in 2006 and located in Sunnyvale, California, this premier startup accelerator specializes in the Internet of Things (IoT). The program lasts for three months, offering a unique blend of mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities essential for IoT startups aiming to excel. With a notable track record, the organization has invested in 974 startups and celebrated 88 successful exits, positioning itself as a significant player in the tech ecosystem with a Crunchbase rank of 144. It operates an equity-free program, allowing entrepreneurs to participate without sacrificing ownership, while providing access to forward-thinking corporations and venture capitalists. Driven by an experienced team, including founders Ali Safavi, Jackie Hernandez, Jojo Flores, and Saeed Amidi, the accelerator is always open for applications. It invites early-stage founders to engage and benefit from comprehensive business development support, seed funding, and early-stage VC opportunities, thus fostering a dynamic environment for innovation in the landscape of technology.

PlugAndPlay - Internet of Things Accelerator's Website
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13) PlugAndPlay - Brand and Retail Accelerator

PlugAndPlay - Brand and Retail Accelerator - California's true entrepreneurial hub

This Brand & Retail Accelerator serves as a premier innovation platform, linking forward-thinking brands, retailers, and consumer packaged goods (CPGs) with startups that are reshaping the retail landscape. Operating twice a year, it selects 20 to 30 startups per cohort from a competitive pool of 2,000 annual applications, facilitating a robust selection process involving corporate partners, venture capitalists, and its venture team. Each program lasts for three months, during which startups benefit from equity-free acceleration designed to elevate their growth to levels typically achieved in 12 months. The initiative focuses on a diverse range of specialization domains, including new business models, customer experience, operations efficiency, and e-commerce, emphasizing innovative solutions that enhance retail dynamics. Founded by Ali Safavi, Jackie Hernandez, Jojo Flores, and Saeed Amidi, the program actively fosters collaboration between emerging startups and established industry players, ensuring a vibrant ecosystem conducive to impactful innovation. This initiative plays a crucial role in advancing retail innovation, propelling startups towards success in today's competitive market.

PlugAndPlay - Brand and Retail Accelerator's Website
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14) PlugAndPlay - FinTech Accelerator

PlugAndPlay - FinTech Accelerator - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

This dynamic 12-week program, conducted twice a year, is designed to connect early-to-growth stage startups with the world's leading financial institutions. As part of a larger global innovation platform, it serves to reshape financial services through collaboration and innovation. The accelerator covers diverse domains within finance, including open banking, payments, trade finance, and wealth management, preparing startups to launch pilots and proof-of-concepts with major corporations. With over 100 industry-focused accelerators operating in more than 50 locations worldwide, it supports a vast ecosystem of 50,000+ startups and facilitates the investment in more than 250 companies annually. The program not only drives corporate innovation for over 500 industry-leading corporations but also provides participants access to industry trends and valuable resources. Founded by Ali Safavi, Jackie Hernandez, Jojo Flores, and Saeed Amidi, this initiative emphasizes early-stage and seed funding, making a significant impact in the financial technology sector. It also has a notable presence in the Asia-Pacific region, enhancing innovation strategies in countries such as Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines.

PlugAndPlay - FinTech Accelerator's Website
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15) PlugAndPlay - Travel and Hospitality

PlugAndPlay - Travel and Hospitality - supporting founders in their growth journey

The Travel and Hospitality accelerator is an innovative platform dedicated to discovering, supporting, and scaling disruptive technologies within the travel and hospitality sectors. Launched in 2016, it operates two three-month programs each year, bringing together approximately 20 startups per cohort. The program focuses on key industry areas such as increasing revenue, lowering costs, enhancing operational efficiencies, fostering brand loyalty, improving safety and security, and creating seamless travel experiences. Participants benefit from extensive networking opportunities, mentorship from industry veterans, investor connections, and access to valuable resources including office space and workshops. At the conclusion of each program, startups showcase their solutions during a Demo Day attended by investors and industry experts. Additionally, the initiative includes a travel and hospitality accelerator program in the APAC region, expanding its global impact. Notably, in 2019, a partnership was formed with Abu Dhabi Global Market, Etihad Airways, and the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism to launch a dedicated program in Abu Dhabi. The accelerator is backed by key founders Ali Safavi, Jackie Hernandez, Jojo Flores, and Saeed Amidi, reinforcing its commitment to advancing innovation in the industry.

PlugAndPlay - Travel and Hospitality's Website
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16) PlugAndPlay - Supply Chain Accelerator

PlugAndPlay - Supply Chain Accelerator - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

The leading innovation platform connects technology startups with the largest corporations in the supply chain and logistics industry. The 12-week program, held twice a year, focuses on driving change and fostering innovation across various aspects of the supply chain, including raw materials, manufacturing, distribution, and recycling. Startups benefit from partnerships with major corporate partners such as Volvo Group and A.P. Moller-Maersk, gaining valuable traction and guidance to accelerate their growth. The accelerator also facilitates access to a network of investors, enriching startups' opportunities for collaboration and investment. Participating startups engage in unique events and networking opportunities, allowing them to stay informed about the latest industry trends. Founded by industry leaders Ali Safavi, Jackie Hernandez, Jojo Flores, and Saeed Amidi, the institution primes early-stage and growth-stage startups for success, aiming to make a lasting impact within the industry. By fostering connections and providing mentorship, this program empowers innovators to drive significant advancements in the supply chain landscape.

PlugAndPlay - Supply Chain Accelerator's Website
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17) PlugAndPlay - Health Accelerator

PlugAndPlay - Health Accelerator - supporting founders in their growth journey

This pioneering innovation platform connects startups with corporations intent on transforming the healthcare industry. It emphasizes digital health technologies that challenge clinical practices, enhance data analytics, and improve the patient journey across various domains, including telemedicine, illness management, diagnostics, and mental health. Founded by notable figures such as Ali Safavi, Jackie Hernandez, Jojo Flores, and Saeed Amidi, the accelerator serves as a vital resource for health tech startups worldwide. It offers a robust network of over 30,000 carefully curated international startups to corporate partners. Participants benefit from extensive networking opportunities at hundreds of public and private events, gaining insights into the latest trends and guidance for digital transformation. The program typically spans three months and focuses on early-stage venture capital and seed funding, fostering innovative solutions within the healthcare tech industry.

PlugAndPlay - Health Accelerator's Website
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18) PlugAndPlay - Real Estate and Construction

PlugAndPlay - Real Estate and Construction - supporting California's best founders

The PlugAndPlay Real Estate & Construction accelerator is a 3-month program designed to connect forward-thinking corporations with the best startups in the industry. Founded by Ali Safavi, Jackie Hernandez, Jojo Flores, and Saeed Amidi, the platform aims to accelerate real estate and construction startups in partnership with corporations looking to disrupt real estate tech. The accelerator, focusing on real estate technology and construction-related innovations, operates twice a year, facilitating collaboration within its ecosystem to redefine the built environment. This program falls under the 'Startup Accelerator' category and provides an opportunity for selected startups to engage with a consortium of corporate partners. PlugAndPlay has established itself as an innovation platform that bridges the gap between startups and large corporations in sectors such as Fintech and Real Estate Tech. The accelerator offers various benefits to participants, creating a conducive environment for industry innovation.

PlugAndPlay - Real Estate and Construction's Website
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19) PlugAndPlay - Food and Beverage Accelerator

PlugAndPlay - Food and Beverage Accelerator - California's true entrepreneurial hub

This stage-agnostic, 12-week innovation platform based in Silicon Valley is designed to support food tech startups seeking to revolutionize the industry. The program runs twice a year and focuses on various specialization domains including personalized nutrition, food safety, automation, functional foods, alternative protein sources, asset tracking, distribution logistics, and waste reduction. By leveraging a network of over 50,000 corporations, investors, and entrepreneurs, it facilitates mentorship, networking opportunities, and corporate business development support for participants. Startups engage in pitch events and have the opportunity to launch pilots and proof-of-concept projects, enhancing their chances for investment and collaboration. Led by notable founders such as Ali Safavi, Jackie Hernandez, Jojo Flores, and Saeed Amidi, the initiative aims to address pressing challenges in the food and beverage sector. It seeks to make a lasting impact following the significant adversity caused by droughts affecting 33 million people over the past four years. This collaborative effort significantly aids startups in transforming the food sector with cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions.

PlugAndPlay - Food and Beverage Accelerator's Website
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20) Plug and Play Tech Center

Plug and Play Tech Center - building California's entrepreneurial future

This established innovation platform has been empowering startups and corporations since 1990. With a focus on driving global innovation, it connects large corporations with industry-agnostic startups through more than 100 accelerator programs across 50 locations worldwide. Tailored support, mentorship, and networking opportunities are provided to accelerate the growth and development of participating startups. Each year, over 250 companies receive investment in collaboration with leading venture capital firms, fueling their expansion with crucial capital. The accelerator spans a diverse array of industries including Agtech, Fintech, Health, and Smart Cities, among others. With a thriving co-working community situated in Silicon Valley, a collaborative environment where startups can flourish is fostered. The organization boasts a robust ecosystem comprising over 400 major corporate partners, providing startups with valuable access to potential clients. Founded by Ali Safavi, Jackie Hernandez, Jojo Flores, and Saeed Amidi, it positions itself as a pivotal player in the global startup landscape, effectively bridging innovative ideas with corporate needs.

Plug and Play Tech Center's Website
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21) LAUNCH

LAUNCH - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

This early-stage investment firm and media company focuses on supporting founders and fostering innovation. The Accelerator offers an intensive, 16-week program designed to help startups achieve product-market fit and secure pre-seed funding. Each cohort consists of 7 startups, targeting the pre-Series A stage, which requires existing traction typically classified as the 'Goldilocks Zone.' Criteria for acceptance vary across domains: enterprise and marketplace startups need to show a monthly recurring revenue of $2,000+ with over 20% month-over-month growth; consumer products require at least 3,000 daily active users showing 5%+ week-over-week growth; and deep-tech startups must have a minimum viable product or prototype with a capable technical team. Throughout the program, participants engage with over 300 investors, facilitating vital networking opportunities and mentorship. The organization specializes in a broad spectrum of industries, including AI, e-commerce, fintech, and healthcare tech. Graduating startups can secure a $500,000 investment or an option for the institution to take 50% of their first funding round. Notable founders Jason Calacanis and Kevin Delano drive this innovative accelerator, emphasizing real-world execution in their ventures.

LAUNCH's Website
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22) Tech Coast Angels San Diego

Tech Coast Angels San Diego - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

NuFund Venture Group is a leading catalyst in building the startup ecosystem in Southern California. With over 425 members and three angel funds, the organization has established itself as one of the largest and most active early-stage investor groups over the past 20+ years. They engage primarily in sectors such as technologyincluding software, hardware, cleantech, and mobileand life sciences, which encompass biotech, medical devices, and digital health. With over 300 active accredited investors, it invests an average of $12 million annually, participating in financing rounds typically ranging from $300K to $1M. The investment process is streamlined, promising decisions within a 30-day due diligence period. The group collaborates closely with various organizations in the San Diego area, including Startup San Diego and Biocom, to support early-stage startups effectively. Founded by industry leaders Luis Villalobos and Steven Mednick, this venture group continues to contribute significantly to the innovation landscape while driving economic growth for both startups and investors.

Tech Coast Angels San Diego's Website
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23) Funders Club

Funders Club - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

Funders Club is an online venture capital firm specializing in seed and early-stage investments, dedicated to discovering, funding, and supporting the world's most promising startups. The organization is highly selective, reviewing a vast number of startups but allowing fewer than 2% to be made available for investment. It focuses on both consumer and enterprise sectors, covering diverse industries including eCommerce, Fintech, and SaaS. Investors gain access to a curated selection of startups through a web and mobile-enabled platform, where they can choose to invest in individual companies via single-company funds or distribute their investments across multiple startups through multi-company funds. The platform often highlights specific technology sectors or top accelerator batches, such as Y Combinator and 500 Startups. Co-founded by Alex Mittal and Boris Silver, the institution aims to provide investors with opportunities to support startups showing strong traction and growth, backed by capable founding teams addressing significant market demands.

Funders Club's Website
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24) Founderly

Founderly - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

An innovative online accelerator designed to support early-stage founders in their entrepreneurial journey, it is structured into two key stages: Seed and Bloom. In the Seed stage, participants develop a founders mindset, create actionable business plans, and compete for advancement on a quarterly leaderboard. The Bloom stage is reserved for the top 100 founders who have successfully progressed. This accelerator offers a holistic approach, combining aspects of a pre-accelerator, founders masterclass, virtual incubator, and continuous startup conference. It fosters personal and professional growth through peer-to-peer education and collaboration. The community includes dreamers and doers from over 60 countries, emphasizing accessibility without stringent criteria for applicants. The organization focuses on multiple industries, including Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Fintech, and General Tech, while providing practical insights, mindfulness practices, and resources. It features a virtual co-working space for inspiration and collaboration and emphasizes organic visibility and credibility enhancement through various PR initiatives. Notably, Vattan PS leads this initiative, which embraces unconventional investment approaches and offers programs exploring venture capital and the Web3 ecosystem.

Founderly's Website
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25) Matrix Partners

Matrix Partners - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

This prominent early-stage venture capital firm based in the United States focuses on seed and Series A funding. It is dedicated to investing in innovative startups primarily in the United States and India, spanning a range of industries such as fintech, B2B SaaS, gaming, healthcare tech, consumer electronics, software, communications, and more. Known for its active involvement, the organization provides not only financial resources but also mentorship, strategic guidance, and access to a robust network of industry experts, enabling entrepreneurs to achieve their business objectives. Recognized for its long-term commitment, it nurtures startups from inception through growth phases. The accelerator emphasizes continuous engagement, offering resources such as office space and business development support. Founders benefit from extensive expertise across various sectors, making this institution a valuable partner for aspiring entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of early-stage business development.

Matrix Partners's Website
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26) The Fabric

The Fabric - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

This Silicon Valley-based pre-Series A startup foundry and accelerator specializes in the cloud and IoT infrastructure space. Founded by experienced serial entrepreneurs Prabakar Sundarrajan, Rajan Raghavan, and Sumant Mandal, it focuses on co-creating and incubating new businesses with early-stage entrepreneurs. Designed to assist in all aspects of startup development, the organization emphasizes its role as a co-founder and co-creator alongside entrepreneurs. The accelerator supports sectors including artificial intelligence, general technology, and SaaS. Operating as a startup incubator, it also offers venture capital investment opportunities. Exemplifying a comprehensive support system, this initiative aids startups in innovating and succeeding within the competitive tech landscape.

The Fabric's Website
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27) Science Center

Science Center - California's true entrepreneurial hub

The University City Science Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurial activity and supporting the growth of a diverse STEM workforce. It operates two primary accelerators: Launch Lane and the Global Startup Accelerator. Launch Lane focuses on technology and technology-enabled companies with a prototype ready for deployment in a commercial setting, accepting both hardware and software solutions. The application deadline for this accelerator is December 9th. In contrast, the Global Startup Accelerator, in partnership with the Welcoming Center for New Pennsylvanians, targets health technology companies seeking to expand into the Indian market, with applications due by December 1st. This program emphasizes improving population health through technological innovation. Both accelerators offer extensive resources and networks, connecting startups with advisors and industry leaders to empower their growth. Industries represented include Edtech, General Tech, Healthcare Tech, and SaaS. Sandra McElligott is noted as a key founder associated with the institution, underscoring its commitment to facilitating impactful entrepreneurial endeavors.

Science Center's Website
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28) AI Fund

AI Fund - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

AI Fund serves as a prominent accelerator and venture capital firm comprised of AI pioneers, operators, entrepreneurs, and investors, supported by esteemed LPs such as NEA, Sequoia, and Greylock. Known as the House AI Accelerator, it is dedicated to supporting Cal alumni, faculty, and students in founding AI startups. The accelerator offers funding ranging from $200K to $1M through post-money SAFE agreements, alongside perks worth up to $750K in free and discounted software and services from major partners like OpenAI, Databricks, and Microsoft. They emphasize a hands-on approach tailored to each startup and include mentorship from industry experts at Google and Berkeley AI. The program assists in business development, product-market fit, and securing further fundraising. Noteworthy alumni include successful startups like Databricks, Flexport, Anyscale, and Superhuman. Established by influential founders Andrew Ng, Eric Strasser, and Renate Nyborg, the institution is pivotal in transforming the entrepreneurship landscape at Berkeley and making strides into the future of artificial intelligence across industries such as healthcare tech and general technology.

AI Fund's Website
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29) LAUNCH Fund

LAUNCH Fund - supporting California's best founders

The accelerator is an established early-stage investment firm and media company dedicated to supporting startups. It has successfully hosted 28 cohorts, each comprising seven startups, emphasizing fundraising, growth, and community building. The program spans 16 weeks, during which founders have the opportunity to pitch to over 700 investors, including leading venture capital firms in Silicon Valley. Graduating companies can receive a $500,000 investment or 50% of their first round of funding. The institution attracts businesses from various sectors, including consumer electronics, general tech, and SaaS, focusing on those with revenue and the potential for significant impact. It provides invaluable mentorship and support from experienced venture partners, guiding participants in achieving product-market fit and developing effective go-to-market strategies for scalable growth. Key figures behind the organization include founders Jason Calacanis and Kevin Delano, who steer the program's vision and operations, making it a prominent choice for early-stage startups looking for substantial growth and investment opportunities.

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30) Next47

Next47 - California's true entrepreneurial hub

Founded by Siemens in 2016, this dedicated accelerator fosters groundbreaking enterprise entrepreneurs and accelerates their revenue growth. Its name symbolizes Siemens' legacy, established in 1847. The mission centers on anticipating disruptions and leveraging visionary opportunities, investing in innovative ideas to propel sustainable growth within the organization. With over 250 customer relationships spanning 15 countries, the accelerator is deeply integrated into the global technological landscape. It provides startups in diverse industries such as Edtech, Fintech, Healthcare Tech, Logistics and Supply Chain, Real Estate Tech, Renewable Energy, Robotics, and SaaS with invaluable insights, strategic advice, and the necessary connections for success. Focusing on long-term partnerships, it ensures startups receive consistent guidance from their inception through growth stages. Led by Lak Ananth, the initiative emphasizes a commitment to cultivating a dynamic ecosystem that encourages disruptive innovations. The accelerator not only supports startups through various funding stages like Series A, B, C, and D but also plays a crucial advisory role, leveraging the extensive expertise of its board members to help navigate critical challenges.

Next47's Website
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31) Alchemist Accelerator

Alchemist Accelerator - California's true entrepreneurial hub

This premier venture-backed program is dedicated to accelerating the development of seed-stage startups that derive revenue from enterprises, not consumers. The six-month program consists of 26 weeks and is limited to 25 teams, emphasizing a strong bias toward technical founding teams. It offers $36,000 in funding for 5% equity and connections to Fortune 100 customer prospects, facilitating customer development and validation. Since its inception, over 650 startups have participated, with more than 50% securing additional funding after graduation, culminating in over $3.9 billion raised in total funding for graduates. The institution is recognized for its world-class network of mentors and investors specializing in enterprise technologies. In 2016, it was rated the top accelerator by CB Insights based on median funding rates. The focus includes diverse industries such as biotech, fintech, healthcare tech, mobile apps, SaaS, and general technology. Notable founders and startups associated with this program include Haamid Ali and Ravi Belani, among others, supported by esteemed backers like Khosla Ventures, Cisco, Siemens, GE, and Salesforce. This accelerator significantly aids early-stage ventures in transforming enterprise markets with innovative solutions.

Alchemist Accelerator's Website
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32) Google for Startups Accelerator

Google for Startups Accelerator - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

This global series of three-month programs supports growth-stage startups, particularly those leveraging technologies such as Machine Learning and AI. Each cohort includes 10-15 top startups, collaborating to address specific technical challenges through a combination of remote and in-person sessions, mentorship, and workshops. Startups typically at the Seed to Series A stages are eligible, provided they demonstrate traction and are developing scalable products within a significant market. Participants benefit from tailored expert assistance as founders identify their top technical hurdles; these are addressed through partnerships with industry experts from the organization. The program emphasizes leadership development, customer acquisition, and product design, ensuring that startups are equipped with the necessary skills to excel. Notably, there is a specialized focus on AI First startups based in Brazil, engaging them through a virtual format. Established by prominent figures such as Larry Page and Sergey Brin, this initiative has positively impacted startups like SORTD, whose co-founder, Wayne Silbermann, praised the invaluable insights gained from mentors and enhanced team alignment achieved through their training.

Google for Startups Accelerator's Website
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33) Keiretsu Forum

Keiretsu Forum - supporting founders in their growth journey

This distinguished global angel investor network comprises over 2,500 accredited investors across 53 chapters on four continents. Based in California, it connects early, seed, and later-stage venture to debt financing investments, facilitating significant opportunities for its portfolio companies. The organization is driven by the mission to rapidly accelerate a company's path to market growth and liquidity, setting it apart from traditional accelerators through its hands-on approach. Its K2 Velocity Program spans three months and focuses on transforming high-potential companies into rapidly growing businesses through collaboration with industry-specific executives and experts. Additionally, the Management Team Program addresses the needs of early-stage firms by providing tailored executive support that enhances management effectiveness and resource allocation. Embracing a wide array of industriesincluding Edtech, Fintech, Fitness and Wellness, Food and Beverage, Gaming, Healthcare Tech, Real Estate Tech, Robotics, and SaaSit plays a pivotal role in aligning investors with executive teams. This collaboration reduces risks to optimize investment opportunities for both members and investors.

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34) Forum Ventures

Forum Ventures - connecting start-up founders with success

As a leading early-stage fund, startup accelerator, and community, this organization is dedicated to B2B SaaS tech startups, having been established in 2014. With operations in New York, San Francisco, and Toronto, its mission is to streamline the journey for early-stage founders. The institution has made 250 pre-seed and seed stage investments, supporting over 210 portfolio companies globally, whose founders have raised more than $360 million in follow-on funding from top-tier firms such as Andreessen Horowitz and Bessemer Ventures. Focusing on developing sustainable businesses, the accelerator provides high-touch programming delivered over an 8-week duration. This includes guidance on go-to-market strategies, early sales, and fundraising. The team consists of experienced experts in the SaaS field, ensuring that founders receive essential mentorship and connections to a robust community of peers and investors. Offering various programs, including a Startup Studio and Growth Program, it is designed to foster collaboration and support among founders across multiple industries, including ecommerce and fintech. The organization is led by notable founders like Elif Tutuk, Michael Cardamone, and Rowan Trollope, reflecting a commitment to nurturing innovation and success within the B2B SaaS sector.

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35) NfX

NfX - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

NFX operates as a pre-seed and seed stage venture capital firm focused on transforming how innovative startups are funded. Founded by experienced entrepreneurs who have collectively built 10 companies with over $10 billion in exits, the organization aims to provide speed, defensibility, and an advantage to early-stage founders. The accelerator program lasts for 12 weeks, and the firm primarily invests in companies located in the US and Israel, as well as those targeting the US market. It specializes in a broad array of sectors, including fintech, healthcare tech, augmented reality/virtual reality, and SaaS. The FAST Seed Funding initiative allows founders to secure funding of $1-2 million for 15% equity in just 9 days, utilizing a SAFE investment structure and supporting a transparent and rapid application process. Notable members of the founding team include Gigi Levy Weiss, Pete Flint, and Stan Chudnovsky. Upon receiving FAST funding, founders join the NFX Guild, a community of over 125 top founders, ensuring ongoing support and collaboration. Overall, the institution is committed to simplifying the fundraising process while empowering startups during their crucial early stages.

NfX's Website
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36) One Million by One Million

One Million by One Million - California's true entrepreneurial hub

One Million by One Million is a global virtual accelerator founded in 2010 by Silicon Valley entrepreneur Sramana Mitra. The accelerator's mission is to nurture entrepreneurs in the IT and IT-enabled services businesses by providing critical resources and mentorship. It is headquartered in Silicon Valley and aims to help a million entrepreneurs globally reach a million dollars in annual revenue to create a trillion dollars in global GDP and ten million jobs. The program offers a Premium Program with features like accelerated education, online mentoring, personal introductions to investors, customers, and media, as well as PR and media coverage, among others, for a $1000 annual membership fee with an estimated ROI of $375,000 + 5-10% equity. Notable founders like Girish Mathrubootham from Freshworks have praised the program for its valuable connections and support. Other entrepreneurs have also benefited from the program by refining their pitches and market analyses. One Million by One Million stands out as a trailblazing accelerator, focusing on empowering entrepreneurs to achieve significant revenue milestones while fostering economic growth and job creation globally.

One Million by One Million's Website
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37) Boost VC Accelerator

Boost VC Accelerator - supporting California's best founders

This venture capital firm specializes in early-stage deep tech startups, focusing on sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality, Biotech, Blockchain, Fintech, Robotics, and Space Tech. Since its inception in 2012, it has made over 250 investments in teams from more than 33 countries. The accelerator program operates twice a year, investing $500,000 for a 15% equity stake in each participating startup, which generally has pre-seed valuations between $3 million and $7 million. Each cohort includes 10 startups and benefits from mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to a robust network of experts. Noteworthy companies that have received investments include Coinbase, Etherscan, Wave, FitXR, Kubos, Launcher, InterVenn, and NextBiotics. Additionally, a Demo Day event is hosted where startups can showcase their progress to potential investors. Founded by Adam Draper and Brayton Williams, the institution is dedicated to accelerating the Sci-Fi future by supporting visionary founders as they bring innovative technologies to life.

Boost VC Accelerator's Website
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38) HAX Venture Capital

HAX Venture Capital - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

HAX is a pioneering venture capital program designed for pre-seed startups focused on hard tech solutions in sustainability, industrial automation, and human health. Operated by SOSV, it aims to support early-stage hardware companies by providing hands-on assistance and funding. The program has facilities in Newark, New Jersey, featuring a 35,000 square-foot site backed by a $25 million investment from the state, alongside additional offices in Shenzhen, San Francisco, Pune, and Tokyo. It incorporates a 26-week collaborative residency that includes an initial investment of $250,000. Since its inception, this accelerator has graduated over 250 startups that collectively raised nearly $2 billion, boasting a cumulative valuation exceeding $8 billion. Key founders include Cyril Ebersweiler, Sean O'Sullivan, and Jay Bullen. The organization provides startups access to a global community of engineers, designers, and entrepreneurs, supported by extensive ecosystems for product development and fundraising. Industries encompassed by HAX include fintech, healthcare tech, personal finance, and renewable energy, enabling startups to innovate and tackle significant challenges across various sectors.

HAX Venture Capital's Website
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39) Vena Vitals

Vena Vitals - supporting California's best founders

Vena Vitals is a medical technology startup based in Irvine, California, specializing in the development of continuous non-invasive blood pressure monitoring solutions. The organization has made significant strides in cardiovascular health with its innovative approach, encapsulated in a soft, flexible sticker that measures blood pressure effortlessly. In recognition of its pioneering work, it was awarded the 2020 MedTech Innovator Execution Award and the Virginia Shimer Rybski Memorial Award, both of which highlight strong leadership and a commitment to advancing patient care. These accolades underscore the startup's potential and dedication to business excellence within the medical technology sector. Founded by Rory Moore and Walter Davis, the institution exemplifies a focused effort in the healthcare tech industry, showcasing innovative capabilities while proving readiness for commercial viability. With its specialization in the medical technology arena, Vena Vitals ensures a promising future in improving health outcomes.

Vena Vitals's Website
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40) Stanford University - Center for Entrepreneurial Studies

Stanford University - Center for Entrepreneurial Studies - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

The Center for Entrepreneurial Studies at Stanford Graduate School of Business is a leading hub for entrepreneurial education and innovation. It is dedicated to nurturing effective leaders in the entrepreneurial landscape while advancing critical knowledge in the field. The organization offers over 50 courses that integrate academic theory with practical experience, taught by distinguished faculty in collaboration with successful entrepreneurs and investors. Initiatives like the Startup Garage enable student teams to design and test viable business concepts that meet real-world needs. Key courses, such as Formation of New Ventures and Managing Growing Enterprises, address unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs, equipping students with valuable analytical tools for rapidly scaling their companies. Beyond traditional coursework, the center provides co-curricular programs, including the Stanford Venture Studio and the Entrepreneurial Summer Program, fostering hands-on learning experiences. Research conducted by faculty covers diverse topics, including the valuation of unicorn firms and the challenges encountered by underrepresented entrepreneurs. Founded by Steve Blank, it fosters a dynamic community that facilitates mentorship, networking, and access to resources through programs like StartX. This rich ecosystem empowers aspiring entrepreneurs to accelerate their ventures and achieve success in their industries, including Edtech.

Stanford University - Center for Entrepreneurial Studies's Website
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41) Stanford Peace Innovation Lab

Stanford Peace Innovation Lab - supporting California's best founders

This research initiative, launched by Stanford University in 2010, builds on earlier work from the Persuasive Tech Lab. Founded by Mark Nelson and Margarita Quihuis, it explores how technology can enhance human interactions and foster positive, pro-social behavior. Its mission is to identify effective technological interventions that promote peace and collaboration across various societal boundaries. The research focuses on the intersection of behavioral psychology, innovation, and business, emphasizing the creation of technology-mediated solutions that encourage positive engagement while reducing conflict. There is a keen interest in the domains of Edtech and Social Media. Among its notable founders is Steve Blank, a recognized figure in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. One significant endeavor includes the development of the Peace Data Standard, which aims to measure the impact of peace initiatives and their economic value. While specific metrics regarding associated start-ups and funding are not detailed, the overarching goal is to transform technological capabilities into tools for enhancing societal wellbeing and fostering a culture of peace.

Stanford Peace Innovation Lab's Website
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42) Stanford Blockchain Club

Stanford Blockchain Club - supporting founders in their growth journey

The Stanford Blockchain Accelerator is the first and only blockchain-focused accelerator at Stanford University, managed by an Alumni Board and current students from the official student group dedicated to blockchain, cryptoeconomics, and cryptocurrency. Its mission is to support Stanford student and alumni founders in building transformative ventures that enhance blockchain technology adoption across various fields including infrastructure, developer tools, analytics, user experience, and practical applications. Since its inception, the program has supported 36 teams, with 90% of these start-ups raising over $2 million from leading venture capital firms, collectively securing more than $80 million in funding. Approximately 70% of participating teams launch their products and generate revenue within six months. By offering access to a robust mentor network and fostering community connections, the accelerator provides participants with a significant advantage for success. Notable founder Steve Blank contributes to the program's entrepreneurial guidance. Additionally, it organizes demo days for teams to present their advancements to potential investors, further solidifying its role in driving innovation within the blockchain ecosystem at Stanford.

Stanford Blockchain Club's Website
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43) Stanford LaunchPad

Stanford LaunchPad - California's true entrepreneurial hub

Stanford LaunchPad, a renowned accelerator affiliated with Stanford University, has been a pillar of entrepreneurial innovation for over 14 years. Led by d.school adjunct professor Perry Klebahn, the accelerator focuses on guiding 10 new ventures through a 10-week program each Spring quarter, prioritizing hands-on experience and rapid business development. With a track record of success, 60% of LaunchPad ventures are still operational, having collectively raised an impressive $600 million in venture capital funding and generated thousands of new jobs. While specializing in diverse industry sectors such as Edtech, the organization offers participants access to a robust startup network including investors, mentors, and top incubators like Alchemist and Y Combinator. Additionally, startups benefit from working space in Silicon Valley, immersing themselves in the thriving tech ecosystem. Notable founders like Steve Blank have been associated with the program, demonstrating its reputation for fostering successful businesses that contribute significantly to Stanford's entrepreneurial landscape.

Stanford LaunchPad's Website
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44) SAP.iO Foundry San Francisco

SAP.iO Foundry San Francisco - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

This prominent startup accelerator program was established in 2017, located in the heart of SOMA, a thriving tech hub. It is designed to assist early-stage startups primarily in the B2B Sales & Services domain, fostering innovation and growth in various industries, including Biotech, Cybersecurity, Entertainment, Fashion and Apparel, Healthcare Tech, and SaaS (Software as a Service). The most recent cohort consisted of 11 startups, benefiting from a zero-cost accelerator experience that facilitates access to SAP APIs, technologies, and networking opportunities with an extensive customer base. Run by founder Ram Jambunathan, the program spans 13 weeks, providing essential resources and mentorship that aids in the integration and scaling efforts within the SAP ecosystem. The initiative aims to transform business operations by empowering innovative companies to leverage SAP's capabilities for sustained growth.

SAP.iO Foundry San Francisco's Website
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45) EvoNexus

EvoNexus - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

This non-profit, location-based incubator situated in San Diego is dedicated to supporting technology startups across diverse sectors including Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Fintech, Healthcare Tech, Robotics, and SaaS. With a robust track record, the organization has facilitated portfolio companies in raising an impressive $138 million in funding during the first quarter of 2024. Over its operation, they have achieved 54 acquisitions, showcasing effectiveness in nurturing startups towards success. The incubator adopts an extended program duration of up to 2 years, allowing entrepreneurs ample time to refine their business strategies and reach significant milestones. Additionally, partners benefit from unique advantages such as access to early stage ventures, strategic startup admissions, investment opportunities, and assistance with the commercialization of innovative technologies. Mentorship is a crucial component of the experience, particularly in preparing startups for their pivotal Demo Day. Founded by Rory Moore and Walter Davis, the institution remains a pivotal player in the tech startup ecosystem, ensuring that motivated entrepreneurs transform their innovative ideas into commercially viable companies.

EvoNexus's Website
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46) Founder Friendly Labs

Founder Friendly Labs - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

This equity-free startup accelerator is tailored for experienced professionals looking to launch successful ventures. Since its inception in 2011, over 200 startups have participated in the program, which offers a low-commitment experience, recognizing the demanding nature of entrepreneurship. Notable alumni include successful companies such as Carta, Moloco, Osmo, Amiato (acquired by Amazon), Aviate (acquired by Yahoo), and Pixelapse (acquired by Dropbox). Founded by Mendel Chuang and Samantha Quist, the organization benefits from their extensive backgrounds at leading tech companies like Google, Apple, Amazon, and LinkedIn. The accelerator welcomes founders from diverse industries, including Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and SaaS, promoting the exchange of innovative ideas. Participants benefit from valuable peer mentoring, access to startup and cloud credits from partners like Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud, as well as insights on product development, design, and public relations. The community fosters collaboration and provides crucial support, enabling founders to focus on scaling their startups without the burden of equity dilution.

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47) Stanford Technology Ventures Program

Stanford Technology Ventures Program - California's true entrepreneurial hub

The Stanford Technology Ventures Program is a pivotal initiative at Stanford University dedicated to cultivating aspiring entrepreneurs and promoting responsible innovation. Founded and directed by Tom Byers, it emphasizes the significance of ethics and values in entrepreneurship. The program offers a range of transformative opportunities, including affiliated courses and the student fellows program, equipping Stanford students with hands-on experience and mentorship essential for developing their entrepreneurial skills. Groundbreaking research on startup performance, growth, technology innovation, and entrepreneurial policy contributes to a comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurship. Central to its mission is a commitment to community engagement and inclusivity, exemplified through initiatives like the 'Entrepreneurial Thought Leaders' speaker events. The organization spans various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and social impact, enabling diverse innovation. Additionally, STVP Connect serves as a valuable resource through its twice-monthly newsletter, keeping members informed of entrepreneurial learning opportunities. Notable founders connected to the program include Steve Blank, further solidifying its role as a catalyst for global entrepreneurial growth and education.

Stanford Technology Ventures Program's Website
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48) Band of Angels

Band of Angels - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

Silicon Valley's oldest angel investment group is comprised of over 150 active investors, all of whom are former and current high-tech executives focused on supporting early-stage startups. In 2017 alone, the organization evaluated 1,000 deals and invested in 22 of them, showcasing its commitment to fostering innovation. This institution operates as an ongoing network rather than a traditional accelerator program, providing mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to capital for entrepreneurs. Key industries funded include Fintech, Healthcare Tech, Mobile Apps, SaaS, and General Tech, enabling support for a diverse range of startups. Founders Dan Forootan and Marcus Yang contribute to the leadership of this influential group, which plays a critical role in bridging the gap between nascent companies and angel investors. With a focus on seed, early-stage VC, and late-stage VC funding types, it continues to enhance the startup ecosystem by hosting educational events, workshops, and pitch sessions for aspiring founders, contributing to their development and ensuring sustainable growth.

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49) NewSchools Venture Fund

NewSchools Venture Fund - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

This pioneering venture philanthropy organization is dedicated to revolutionizing the education system by funding and supporting innovative entrepreneurs. With a mission to close the achievement gap, they invest in early-stage ventures that offer creative solutions to enhance public education, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to succeed academically. Over the past 25 years, more than $400 million has been invested in education innovators, impacting 60% of public school students across the nation. In 2023 alone, $25 million was allocated to support 102 ventures, focusing on various domains such as EdTech and science education. Founded by notable figures including Jennifer Carolan, John Doerr, and Kim Smith, the organization emphasizes collaboration and leadership, inviting passionate individuals and philanthropists to join in the transformative mission. Their keen investment strategy targets seed and early-stage ventures, particularly those at the forefront of the education innovation landscape. Through accelerator programs, bold ideas are actively sought that can reshape the educational experience for future generations.

NewSchools Venture Fund's Website
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50) Amplify

Amplify - California's true entrepreneurial hub

This pre-seed fund and startup accelerator is located in Venice, CA, and was established in 2011. It focuses on supporting strong teams in the early stages of development, backing dozens of startups that have collectively raised over half a billion dollars in funding, achieving notable exits to companies such as Apple, Google, and FanDuel. As a key player in the Los Angeles technology scene, the organization invests in various sectors, including consumer electronics, fintech, general tech, and SaaS. They provide capital, mentorship from seasoned industry professionals, access to resources, and connections to the vibrant LA startup ecosystem. Led by founders Jeff Solomon, Oded Noy, Paul Bricault, and Richard Wolpert, this initiative emphasizes helping entrepreneurs transition from the earliest phases to successful funding rounds, including seed and Series A investments. The firms commitment to nurturing innovation and facilitating growth for tech startups remains a cornerstone of its operations.

Amplify's Website
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51) Ferment

Ferment - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

Ferment is an accelerator focused on incubating, funding, and launching early-stage companies that harness programmed biology to influence the future of humanity. The program supports a diverse range of industries, including biotechnology, clean energy, food and beverage, and healthcare technology. It provides participating start-ups with invaluable resources, mentorship from experienced professionals, and networking opportunities that are crucial for growth within the start-up ecosystem. Additionally, the organization offers various benefits, such as co-working spaces, educational workshops, and connections to potential investors. Notably, Jason Kakoyiannis is among the founders steering this initiative. The accelerator aims to fuel innovation and address contemporary challenges through technology and sustainable practices, making it an essential player in the modern entrepreneurial landscape.

Ferment's Website
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52) Idealab

Idealab - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

Idealab is a pioneering technology incubator that creates groundbreaking companies, significantly impacting how people think, live, and work. Founded by notable entrepreneurs including Marcia Goodstein, Mark Goodstein, Tom Hughes, and William T. Gross, the organization has been instrumental in the development of innovative products and services since its inception in 1996. The accelerator has successfully conducted 17 editions, fostering 255 ideas from 570 entrepreneurs, thereby strengthening the technology and clean energy industries, among others. It offers a diverse range of specialized programs such as the executive academy, business plan competitions, and initiatives tailored for women's entrepreneurship and green business efforts. Noteworthy programs include Academia Boost, Acredita Emprega, and ClimateLaunchpad, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to entrepreneurship development. Through mentorship, tailored support, and networking opportunities, the institution is committed to nurturing innovative startup ideas across various domains, including Fintech and SaaS, exemplifying its essential role in transforming the entrepreneurial landscape.

Idealab's Website
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53) MuckerLab

MuckerLab - supporting California's best founders

MuckerLab is a distinctive venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in Los Angeles, specializing in incubation, pre-seed, seed, and early-stage investments. Operating under Mucker Capital, the organization prioritizes a tailored approach to support startups, working with 20 to 25 companies annually rather than the traditional model of churning through hundreds. They focus on heads-down company-building for up to one year, assisting entrepreneurs in achieving essential operating milestones for subsequent financing rounds. The accelerator nurtures startups across various domains, including fintech and SaaS, by helping them validate their core business concepts and reach product-market fit. In addition to financial support, the company provides mentorship-driven guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs and executives, ensuring deep engagement with each portfolio company. This program benefits not only nascent businesses but also existing firms looking to revamp their strategies and optimize revenue growth. Notable founders include Erik Rannala and William Hsu. The portfolio also boasts successful partnerships with prominent investors such as Accel Partners, Sequoia Capital, and Andreessen Horowitz, demonstrating its effectiveness in helping startups secure external capital.

MuckerLab's Website
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54) UpWest Labs

UpWest Labs - supporting founders in their growth journey

This prominent seed fund and accelerator, founded in January 2012 in Silicon Valley, specifically caters to Israeli founders aiming to innovate at the US-Israel tech junction. It offers a comprehensive 16-week, mentorship-based program in Palo Alto, California, providing essential ingredients for startup success, such as seed funding, access to markets, and a robust supportive community. Graduates have collectively raised over $50 million in funding, with more than 70% securing follow-on funding and several being acquired by major companies like Google, Priceline, and Gartner. Notable alumni include SlickLogin, Qlika, and Senexx. The investment focus encompasses a broad range of domains, including Adtech, B2B, Cloud, Ecommerce, and SaaS. Key figures behind the organization include founders Gil Ben-Artzy and Shuly Galili, along with a network of mentors from industry giants such as Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn. This unique accelerator empowers Israeli startups to tap into Silicon Valley's resources and expertise, establishing a competitive foothold in the US market.

UpWest Labs's Website
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55) LAUNCH

LAUNCH - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

This prominent accelerator bridges innovation and impact by fostering sustainable solutions to global challenges. Established in 2008 through a collaboration among NASA, USAID, the U.S. Department of State, and NIKE, it has since accelerated 111 innovators tackling 13 of the world's most pressing issues. The program offers an intensive 15-week experience designed to assist founders in achieving product-market fit and raising pre-seed funding. Each cohort consists of 7 startups, granting founders access to over 300 investors. It targets companies in the 'Goldilocks Zone'pre-Series A with measurable tractionacross various sectors including artificial intelligence, e-commerce, and general tech. Specific traction criteria entail enterprise or startup businesses having $2,000+ in monthly recurring revenue and a minimum of 20% month-over-month growth, or consumer products boasting 3,000+ daily active users with at least 5% week-over-week growth. The accelerator also supports deep-tech startups with a minimum viable product or prototype, alongside a solid technical team. Through mentorship, networking, and valuable resources, this organization empowers startups to evolve into fundable companies.

LAUNCH's Website
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56) Mucker Capital

Mucker Capital - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

Mucker Capital operates MuckerLab, a unique accelerator program dedicated to supporting software and Internet startups outside Silicon Valley, focusing particularly on Los Angeles. The institution adopts a boutique approach, nurturing a select cohort of 20-25 startups each year, allowing for personalized, hands-on support to help achieve critical operating milestones. Investing primarily at the pre-seed stage, it provides essential initial capital to assist startups in validating and refining their business models. The accelerator targets sectors such as Internet software, media, cybersecurity, mobile applications, and general tech. MuckerLab has a remarkable track record, with nearly all participating startups successfully securing further funding from prestigious investors like Accel Partners, Sequoia Capital, and Bessemer Venture Partners. Unlike traditional three-month programs, support continues for up to one year or until each startup reaches their financing milestones. The program is overseen by founder Greg Bettinelli, boasting high founder satisfaction scores and exceptional success rates. In addition to funding, extensive mentoring, legal assistance, and operational support are offered to ensure the growth and scalability of each startup.

Mucker Capital's Website
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57) Google Launchpad Accelerator

Google Launchpad Accelerator - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

This distinguished program focuses on supporting growth-stage startups from emerging markets, specifically targeting Brazil, Indonesia, India, and Mexico. The six-month acceleration initiative includes an intensive two-week bootcamp at Google HQ, where participants receive specialized mentorship from company product teams and a global network of experts. It stands out by providing equity-free funding, allowing startups to focus on their growth without the burden of equity dilution. Startups in the accelerator benefit from comprehensive mentorship tailored to their unique challenges, gaining access to resources that have positively impacted over 8,000 startups across more than 30 countries. Alumni frequently report significant enhancements in metrics such as app installations and active user engagement. The initiative encompasses a wide range of tech sectors, emphasizing a results-driven approach to foster tangible outcomes for each startup. Noteworthy figures associated with the program include founders Larry Page, Samuel Jeanblanc, and Sergey Brin, who reinforce the commitment to innovation and technological advancement.

Google Launchpad Accelerator's Website
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58) Amplify.LA

Amplify.LA - supporting California's best founders

A leading pre-seed accelerator located in Venice, California, at the heart of Silicon Beach, specializes in providing support to early-stage startups through a four-month empowerment program focused on intense collaboration. It invests between $50,000 and $150,000 in seed funding for each startup, taking an equity stake of 5% to 15%. Portfolio companies benefit from free workspace at the Venice campus and receive extensive hands-on mentorship from experienced investors and executives in various domains, including fashion and apparel, fintech, food and beverage, gaming, healthcare tech, mobile apps, real estate tech, SaaS, and travel and tourism. Established by industry leaders Jeff Solomon, Oded Noy, Paul Bricault, and Richard Wolpert, the accelerator ensures the growth and success of its startups by offering a range of free or discounted services such as legal, banking, and hosting. This institution is recognized for its deeply involved approach, making it a dynamic force in the startup ecosystem, fostering promising companies from their inception to exit.

Amplify.LA's Website
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59) Port of San Diego

Port of San Diego - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

The Port of San Diego serves as a vibrant gateway to the world, welcoming millions of visitors annually and fostering community prosperity. It is recognized as an innovative champion public-benefit entity, emphasizing sustainable development within the Blue Economy. The Blue Economy Incubator (BEI) plays a crucial role in this mission by supporting emerging businesses focused on sustainable marine solutions, encompassing sectors such as aquaculture and marine technology. The BEI actively addresses entrepreneurial barriers through funding, support services, and the facilitation of pilot projects, having committed $1.7 million to date for its initiatives. This incubator not only assists start-ups by providing access to Port-owned properties for testing but also offers entitlement and permitting assistance, ensuring smooth navigation through regulatory landscapes. Additionally, it collaborates with strategic partners, including the NavalX Southern California Tech Bridge, to combine resources from science, industry, investment, and government networks. This initiative exemplifies the commitment to driving innovation, environmental stewardship, and economic growth in the marine sector.

Port of San Diego's Website
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60) ICONIQ Capital

ICONIQ Capital - supporting California's best founders

ICONIQ Capital is a privately-held, tech-focused investment firm that provides direct investment efforts, primarily serving influential families and organizations. It operates the ICONIQ Growth initiative, which aims to assist high-growth companies, particularly in the Software as a Service (SaaS) sector. The accelerator program supports the scaling of SaaS companies by offering insights into financial and operational metrics. As of the first half of 2023, early-stage companies involved experienced an Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) growth of 111% year-over-year and a median net dollar retention rate of approximately 105%. The firm prioritizes efficient growth strategies, which includes balancing revenue generation with profitability improvements. Research also encompasses diverse verticals within the SaaS domain and provides valuable resources such as compensation benchmarks and go-to-market strategies. Its wide-ranging industry interests include edtech, fintech, healthcare tech, and more. The founders of the organization include Chad Boeding, Divesh Makan, and Michael Anders, positioning it as a pivotal partner for SaaS entrepreneurs seeking to scale their businesses effectively.

ICONIQ Capital's Website
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61) Heavybit

Heavybit - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

This prominent accelerator and venture fund specializes in developer-first startups, providing dedicated support to technical founders. Since its inception in 2013, it has established an impressive track record, helping startups redefine how technology is built, deployed, secured, and scaled. The program spans over 39 weeks and offers tailored strategic plans, weekly mentorship, one-on-one check-ins, and domain-specific educational events, focusing on early go-to-market strategies. Investments range between $250,000 and $1 million in each accepted company, supporting them from Seed through Series B funding rounds. Backed by a community of domain experts including advisors and alumni, the organization understands the developer and modern enterprise software landscape. Notable successes from the program include companies like PagerDuty, Citus Data, and TreasureData. Additionally, 90% of alumni have succeeded in raising subsequent funding rounds. Founded by James Lindenbaum and Tom Drummond, this institution emphasizes creating a supportive ecosystem that combines capital with pragmatic advice to propel startups to success.

Heavybit's Website
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62) Thrive - SVG Ventures

Thrive - SVG Ventures - supporting California's best founders

Operated by SVG Ventures, this leading agrifood-focused technology accelerator addresses significant challenges within the agtech and foodtech industries. The THRIVE VII Accelerator supports early-stage startups across the entire agriculture value chain. This year's program has selected 12 startups from a record-breaking pool of nearly 700 applicants spanning 78 countries. Participants of the three-month program gain investment, direct access to major agriculture companies, and mentorship from industry leaders, culminating in the Forbes | THRIVE Demo Day at the Future of Food Summit. Since its inception, the accelerator has graduated 73 startups that have collectively generated over $1 billion in value, earning recognition as the #1 AgTech Accelerator by AgFunder. Moreover, it promotes diversity, with 50% of the current cohort featuring either a female founder or a woman in a senior leadership role. The programming combines over 4 months of virtual sessions with more than 2 weeks of in-person networking opportunities. Founded by John Hartnett, the organization is committed to cultivating innovation within agriculture technology and the food system, driving toward a more sustainable and secure agricultural future.

Thrive - SVG Ventures's Website
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63) The House Fund

The House Fund - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

The House Fund is a pre-seed and early stage venture capital fund dedicated to investing in the brightest startups founded by Berkeley's alumni, faculty, and students, primarily in the field of artificial intelligence. They provide investments ranging from $200K to $1M for individual startups and offer up to $750K in perks, including free and discounted software and services from partners like Databricks and Microsoft, as well as support from OpenAI through credits and access to AI technology. The accelerator also features mentorship from AI experts at Google and a distinguished team that includes seven leading AI researchers from Berkeley. Notably, the organization has supported nearly 200 founders across more than 100 companies, with prominent startups including Databricks, Flexport, Superhuman, Crowdbotics, and Oasis Labs. Founders benefit from a vast network of 600,000 Berkeley alumni, enhancing their potential for growth and success. The program runs for 10 weeks, with an early application deadline of March 22nd and a final deadline of April 12th. Jeremy Fiance leads this dynamic venture capital investment initiative, fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem within the Berkeley community.

The House Fund's Website
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64) EXPERT DOJO

EXPERT DOJO - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

This international startup accelerator, based in Santa Monica, Los Angeles, is dedicated to helping startups scale their business over a comprehensive three-year program. It accepts companies into an intensive four-week initiative where participants engage in growth sessions every Friday with exited entrepreneurs, growth-focused investors, and specialized mentors. Additionally, selected startups benefit from one-on-one strategy sessions with founder Brian Mac Mahon and gain access to mastermind groups focused on fast growth and product fit. They receive total investments of up to $100,000, which includes $20,000 for program fees, alongside an average investment of $50,000. For exceptional growth, there is a potential for follow-on investment of up to $1,000,000. The organization specializes in various domains such as clean energy, fintech, SaaS, and edtech, providing significant resources including a 90% discount on HubSpot services, AWS credits, and opportunities for networking within a large entrepreneurial community. Its mission is to propel startups towards their Series A round by equipping them with strategic guidance and growth-centric resources.

EXPERT DOJO's Website
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65) TiE Women

TiE Women - connecting start-up founders with success

TiE Women is a global accelerator program dedicated to embracing, engaging, and empowering women entrepreneurs worldwide, regardless of their enterprise size, origin, or background. The program, part of TiE Global with 61 chapters, offers sustainable programming tracking the entire entrepreneurial journey with a focus on learning, mentoring, access to funding, scalability, safe space, and community building. Key dates for the accelerator program include the launch of applications on February 19th, 2024, and the Global Finale in Bangalore in December 2024. Participants can benefit from equity-free cash prizes of up to $50,000, mentoring from successful entrepreneurs, investor access, networking opportunities, and global visibility. Over 6,000 applications from 62 countries have been received, with 400+ women-led startups accelerated and 16 startups receiving grants worth over $350K. Startups eligible for the program must be founded or co-founded by women entrepreneurs, with the women co-founder owning at least 33% equity and the company registered on or after January 1, 2017. TiE Global, fostering entrepreneurship globally, boasts 3,000+ Charter Members, 15,000+ Members, and a significant wealth generated value along with creating substantial employment and investments, showcasing the program's impactful contribution to the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

TiE Women's Website
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66) Expa Labs

Expa Labs - connecting start-up founders with success

Expa Labs is a flexible early-stage program tailored for pre-seed startups, designed to provide comprehensive support through expertise, funding, and a robust network. Founders can secure flexible funding options, including $250,000 for 7% equity or $400,000 for 10% equity, along with guidance on future investment processes and introductions to leading venture capital firms. The accelerator features a dedicated support team that acts as fractional COOs, assisting startups with growth channels, customer acquisition, business strategy, operations, and product development. Personalized mentorship is integral to the program, with frequent one-on-one sessions and office hours emphasizing product-market fit, fundraising, brand identity, and talent sourcing. The institution has a strong international network, offering connections to top-tier VCs and hosting Expa Hubs in key cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, and London. Participants benefit from up to $250,000 in credits for essential services and access to a founder community that fosters collaboration and shared knowledge. Founded by Garrett Camp, it supports a diverse range of industries including ecommerce, fintech, general tech, mobile apps, and SaaS, creating a valuable ecosystem for early-stage companies to thrive.

Expa Labs's Website
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67) LAUNCH (UC Berkeley)

LAUNCH (UC Berkeley) - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

The leading accelerator at the University of California, Berkeley, focuses on transforming early-stage startups into fundable companies. This intensive three-month program serves to refine value propositions, protect intellectual property, and connect startups with industry experts, ensuring their scalability and growth. This year, 22 startups were selected from over 120 applications, demonstrating a commitment to identifying and nurturing promising ventures. The program has significantly impacted the entrepreneurial ecosystem, having helped over 220 companies accelerate their growth, with those associated raising over $1.1 billion in total funding. Notably, the organization does not take any equity from participating companies, allowing founders to focus on their missions without dilution. Startups within the program can compete for up to $40,000 in prize money and benefit from extensive mentorship and networking opportunities. The accelerator embraces a wide range of industries, including blockchain, fintech, and personal finance, and is led by notable figures like Melissa Daniels. Jed Katz, Managing Director at Javelin Venture Partners, highlights its success in attracting exceptional entrepreneurs tackling significant problems in large markets, further establishing a reputation as a nurturing environment for innovation and growth.

LAUNCH (UC Berkeley)'s Website
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68) Highway1

Highway1 - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

This prominent hardware startup accelerator is based in San Francisco, California, and was established in 2013. It specializes in supporting startups in the electronics, hardware manufacturing, and product design sectors by providing a collaborative and hands-on environment. The program is designed to help hardware startups navigate unique challenges in design, manufacturing, and sales, ensuring they develop hardware prototypes that are ready for funding. Typically, it involves intensive mentorship, workshops, and prototyping support. The accelerator has successfully facilitated 11 exits for its portfolio companies. Backed by the manufacturing expertise of PCH International, the organization offers insights into scalable manufacturing in Shenzhen. Startups benefit from a network of veteran engineers and experienced mentors, enabling them to avoid inventory risk and accelerate their go-to-market strategies. Founded by Brady Forrest and Liam Casey, the accelerator plays a crucial role in the ecosystem of consumer electronics and general tech startups, fostering innovation and entrepreneurial success.

Highway1's Website
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69) Paper Lantern

Paper Lantern - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

This collaborative venture accelerator was formed through a partnership between Hot Paper Lantern and Cardinal Sports Capital, aimed at leveraging their combined expertise to support startups, particularly in sports, media, and technology. With a substantial commitment of $100 million for startup investments, it showcases strong financial backing to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. While specific details regarding the number of associated or funded startups are not disclosed, the accelerator is positioned to engage with multiple ventures, providing them with tailored support. This likely includes essential resources such as mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to industry experts, all aimed at helping startups succeed in their respective markets. Operating within a sector-agnostic framework, the organization is poised to impact various industries and drive the trajectory of life on Earth through business consulting in e-commerce, healthcare, IT, and consumer sectors. Noteworthy for its ambitious goals and robust investment capacity, it is an influential player within the startup ecosystem.

Paper Lantern's Website
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70) Expa

Expa - connecting start-up founders with success

Expa is a venture studio and VC fund that supports early-stage startups through expertise, access, and funding. The organization runs the Expa Accelerator, a flexible program tailored for pre-seed startups. It offers $250,000 for 7% equity or $400,000 for 10% equity to help startups go from 0 to 1. Participants benefit from a dedicated support team acting as a fractional COO, personalized mentorship, and access to an international network including top-tier VCs. Up to $250,000 in credits, founder community access, and lifetime support are also provided. While the accelerator does not specify specialization domains, it likely supports various industries such as Ecommerce, Fintech, General Tech, and SaaS. Founded by Garrett Camp, Expa has launched dozens of companies, supported over 50 founders, and reached millions of users. This makes it a valuable resource for startups looking to scale and succeed in the early stages of their development.

Expa's Website
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71) Founders Network

Founders Network - supporting California's best founders

This authentic community comprises over 600 tech startup founders, offering peer-to-peer mentorship, education, and advice for entrepreneurs from seed stage to exit. The network includes alumni from more than 100 prestigious accelerator programs such as Y-Combinator, TechStars, and 500Startups, creating a meta network that supports diverse founders across various industries, including General Tech, Healthcare Tech, and SaaS. It emphasizes vital post-accelerator mentorship, allowing members to learn from those who have achieved product-market fit, scaled teams, raised Series-A funding, and exited successfully. The Funded Founder Forum facilitates connections among founders at similar stages for enhanced learning and cooperation. Through these connections, they can address challenges and accelerate their growth, with relationships established within this network offering long-term benefits throughout their careers. Key figures include Ben Moorsom, Bianca Loew, Jeremy Almond, Joshua Aguilar, and Kevin Holmes, who guide this supportive environment. Ultimately, the organization provides a robust platform for tech startup founders to learn, grow, and thrive together in their entrepreneurial journeys.

Founders Network's Website
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72) QB3

QB3 - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3) is a nonprofit research and technology commercialization institute affiliated with UC campuses in the San Francisco Bay Area. Established in 2005, QB3 focuses on quantitative biosciences, facilitating the commercialization of new technologies in domains like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. It catalyzed a series of life science ventures and pioneered university-associated incubators and venture capital investment in biotech, pharma, and health tech. The accelerator provides full-spectrum support from academic research to VC-funded companies preparing for clinical trials. QB3's impact is evident through its extensive support for numerous life sciences startups. The organization offers mentoring programs connecting founders with industry veterans, engages in student internships leading to full-time hires, and promotes scientific collaboration within and beyond the UC system. Founded by Gray Davis, QB3 serves as a vital hub for advancing bioscience innovation, fostering entrepreneurship, and bridging academia-industry gaps in the Biotech and Healthcare Tech sectors.

QB3's Website
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73) super{set}

super{set} - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

This startup studio focuses on transforming innovative data and AI concepts into powerful software companies. It employs a people-first performance culture and utilizes company-building playbooks to discover, fund, and scale high-potential businesses. Operating across a sector-agnostic model, the organization leverages a strategic approach to build data-driven software enterprises. Founded by Tom Chavez and Vivek Vaidya, both committed to fostering the next generation of impactful companies, this institution is dedicated to driving growth and innovation in the tech landscape.

super{set}'s Website
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74) Cedars-Sinai Accelerator

Cedars-Sinai Accelerator - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

The transformative three-month program based in Los Angeles, California, is dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs in the healthcare technology sector. It provides participating companies with $100,000 in funding, mentorship from over 300 leading clinicians and executives, and access to the renowned Cedars-Sinai medical center. This access fosters collaboration and the testing of innovative healthcare solutions. Specializing in various domains, including AI, digital health, medical devices, and biotechnology, startups benefit from dedicated office space, an alumni community, and the opportunity to present their ideas to healthcare leaders during a Demo Day. The initiative has significantly impacted healthcare delivery and patient care since its inception in 2015, assisting numerous companies in bringing their innovations to market. Notable alumni have expressed high praise for the program, highlighting the unparalleled access to top-tier medical resources and expertise. Through its comprehensive support and vast network, it stands as a pivotal player in the advancement of healthcare technologies, fostering breakthroughs that are set to improve patient outcomes globally.

Cedars-Sinai Accelerator's Website
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75) K5 Ventures

K5 Ventures - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

K5 Ventures is an American early-stage startup accelerator and fund based in California, dedicated to fostering technology-driven businesses led by impactful founding teams. Established in 2010, it aims to make a significant impact by investing in early-stage companies with innovative ideas that tackle complex challenges. The accelerator's hands-on investment strategy provides seed funding to help startups achieve key product-market fit milestones, paving the way for subsequent funding stages necessary for sustainable growth. Operating in southern California, Silicon Valley, and China, the organization emphasizes industries such as Ecommerce, Healthcare Tech, Mobile Apps, Robotics, and SaaS. Guided by successful entrepreneurs and investors, including co-founders Amir Banifatemi and Ray Chan, the institution is passionate about building startups. While specific additional perks are not detailed, the organization offers mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to a supportive community. By combining investment and mentorship, it plays a critical role in accelerating the growth of visionary founders and innovative technology companies.

K5 Ventures's Website
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76) On Deck

On Deck - supporting California's best founders

This prominent community platform supports founders in their entrepreneurial journey, focusing on the development and launch of innovative companies. The Fellowship program is a year-long initiative that enables participants to progress from pre-idea to fundraising readiness for a fee of $2,990. It offers a blend of onboarding, weekly skill development, workshops, co-founder matching, and preparation for building minimum viable products. For high-growth, venture-scale companies, the Scale program provides a more advanced option costing $10,000 per year. Additionally, Angels aids operator angels in expanding their networks or starting funds for a $5,000 donation to a scholarship fund for accepted fellows. With a community of founders who have collectively launched over 1,000 companies, the organization emphasizes the importance of networking and skill enhancement in various domains, including technology and personal finance. Key founders, including Erik Torenberg and Chipp Norcross, lead its initiatives, ensuring a robust support system for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors alike.

On Deck's Website
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77) Expert Dojo

Expert Dojo - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

An international startup accelerator based in Santa Monica, this organization is dedicated to driving business growth through a comprehensive 12-step program that provides expert coaching and specialist support across various domains, including branding, design, and strategic planning. Spanning three years, the accelerator immerses selected startups in a robust growth engine that includes access to venture capital and continuous engagement for follow-on investments. Startups can receive total investments of up to $100K, which consists of $20K in program fees and a commitment to fuel their growth. Participants also benefit from a range of partner perks such as a 90% discount on HubSpot, free access to a Brex credit card, and credits from Amazon Web Services. Every Friday, growth sessions with experienced entrepreneurs and targeted mentorship sessions led by the founder empower startups to refine their strategies. Notable alumni include companies such as Sensate, Virtanza, and STARNEWS, and the program focuses on industries like Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and Healthcare Tech. Mastermind groups are also formed to facilitate strategic discussions and rapid growth among selected participants.

Expert Dojo's Website
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78) Berkeley SkyDeck Fund

Berkeley SkyDeck Fund - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

The investment arm for UC Berkeley's SkyDeck Accelerator Program was founded in 2012 as a high-tech entrepreneurship initiative at the university. It represents a collaboration between the Haas School of Business and the Berkeley College of Engineering. Each startup participating in the structured six-month program receives a $200,000 investment, with an impressive $1.8 billion raised collectively by its startups, known as SkyTeams. The program boasts a notable success rate, with 60% of these teams securing funding and 25 achieving Series A and B rounds. Additionally, it has facilitated 17 exits through acquisitions. The accelerator promotes diversity and inclusion, significantly increasing ventures led by female and historically overlooked founders. Its extensive network includes over 480 mentors and advisors, providing essential guidance and connections to top-tier venture capitalists. Workshops are hosted through the Berkeley Acceleration Method (BAM) to enhance startups' understanding of market strategies. Founders with ties to any of the 10 UC campuses, including international entrepreneurs, can participate. Noteworthy figures associated with this initiative include Chon Tang, Gopakumar Balakrishnan, and Todd Roberts, who play critical roles in supporting the thriving ecosystem.

Berkeley SkyDeck Fund's Website
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79) Paladin

Paladin - building California's entrepreneurial future

This non-profit accelerator focuses on connecting underrepresented and underserved entrepreneurs to the startup ecosystem, with the aim of increasing the number of minority entrepreneurs in technology. It provides early-stage startups with essential resources, mentorship, and potential funding to support their growth and success. Emphasizing authentic connections, the organization educates its participants on navigating the entrepreneurial landscape. It specializes in various industries, including Cybersecurity, Edtech, Fintech, and General Tech. Under the leadership of founder Terell Sterling, the accelerator operates a startup incubator program tailored to help startups scale effectively. Known for its commitment to nurturing promising ventures, they offer tailored support to participants, ensuring they have the tools and guidance necessary to succeed.

Paladin's Website
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80) Thrive by SVG Ventures

Thrive by SVG Ventures - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

A global venture and innovation firm based in Silicon Valley, dedicated to transforming the agtech and foodtech industries through strategic collaborations with startups, corporations, universities, and growers. The accelerator program, which lasts three months, has successfully graduated 83 startups since its inception, with the latest cohort, THRIVE VIII, comprising ten startups selected from over 800 applicants across 78 countries, all chosen for their sustainability impact and commercial potential. These startups have collectively generated over $1 billion in value. Noteworthy participants from the latest cohort include Cattler Corporation, F4A, and Iamus Technologies, which focus on digital efficiencies in the cattle industry, reducing food waste, and robotic solutions for poultry farming, respectively. The initiative offers tailored mentorship along with access to a vast network of investors and corporate partners. It is recognized as the Most Active AgTech Investor, with a community that spans over 5,000 startups across 100 countries, reinforcing a commitment to driving innovation in food and agriculture. Founded by John Hartnett, the organization has been pivotal in steering its vision and mission.

Thrive by SVG Ventures's Website
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81) Santa Barbara Angel Alliance

Santa Barbara Angel Alliance - connecting start-up founders with success

This angel investor group, established in 2016, plays a crucial role in nurturing early-stage companies and fostering innovation across various industries, including Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality, Healthcare Tech, Real Estate Tech, and Robotics. It has invested more than $5 million in over 100 startups, focusing on Seed to Series A funding with investment sizes ranging from $25,000 to $650,000. The organization has successfully funded 75 companies and reported six successful exits. Notable investments include Aeluma, AviAi, and Cadense. In recent years, a robust commitment to supporting startups has been demonstrated, with investment amounts reaching $2.4 million in 2019, $1.8 million in 2020, $3.9 million in 2021, $3 million in 2022, and $2.9 million in 2023. They provide valuable expertise and guidance to founders, leveraging member networks to enhance the probability of successful exits and subsequent fundraising rounds. The leadership team includes founders Greg Goodman, John Petote, and Mike Pugh, who collectively drive the mission to empower emerging entrepreneurs and innovators within the community.

Santa Barbara Angel Alliance's Website
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82) Cedars-Sinai Accelerator

Cedars-Sinai Accelerator - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

Based in Los Angeles, California, this non-profit program focuses on transforming healthcare quality, efficiency, and delivery by supporting entrepreneurs in bringing innovative technology products to market. Operating for a duration of three months, it provides participating companies with a $100,000 investment to eliminate funding barriers. Startups are connected with over 300 leading clinicians and executives who offer valuable mentorship and access to clinical expertise across various specialties. The program targets several specialization domains including AI, analytics, digital health, medical devices, and biotechnology. In addition to dedicated office space adjacent to the medical center, participants receive a myriad of perks, including access to information infrastructure and an opportunity to showcase their innovations on Demo Day in front of healthcare leaders and investors. Since its inception in 2016, the accelerator has successfully aided numerous tech innovators in realizing their ideas and has been instrumental in advancing healthcare delivery and patient care. Key individuals involved in the program include founder Kaspare Cohn, who has been pivotal in driving its mission forward.

Cedars-Sinai Accelerator's Website
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83) Founders.ai

Founders.ai - California's true entrepreneurial hub

Established in 2020 and led by co-founder Michael Rumiantsau, this institution specializes in building companies and making venture investments focused on artificial intelligence and data-driven innovations. The accelerator targets pre-seed and seed startups aiming to transform enterprises through cutting-edge technologies such as AI/NLP, machine learning, data analytics, and cloud infrastructure. Currently, it supports a diverse portfolio of 26 companies, with a significant portion founded by immigrants, Black founders, or female-led teams. The organization prides itself on its rapid decision-making process, boasting an average of just one week for funding approvals. Additionally, it leverages global talent to drive innovation and maintains strong connections within Silicon Valley. Notably, one successful portfolio company, Arcion, was recently acquired by Databricks for over $100 million, exemplifying the impactful integration of AI in enterprise frameworks. Furthermore, collaboration with Google for Startups Accelerator focuses on addressing technical challenges within the startup ecosystem.

Founders.ai's Website
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84) Nex Cubed

Nex Cubed - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

Nex Cubed is a pre-seed venture accelerator dedicated to investing in and uplifting underrepresented founders and underserved communities, with a strong commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the startup ecosystem. Over its 10+ years in operation, the organization has accelerated more than 300 companies, which have collectively raised $500 million. Notably, 65% of these companies are led by underrepresented founders, contributing to the creation of over 5,000 jobs. It runs three industry-specific accelerators, including a semi-remote Digital Health accelerator that connects founders with healthcare experts to prepare them for investment and enterprise readiness. The programs are supported by a robust network of over 220 mentors and advisors, while 80+ investments have been made, and two companies have been launched from scratch. The founders include Bill Malloy, Kelsey Morgan, Kip Quackenbush, and Nick Phillips, focusing on domains such as Fintech, General Tech, and Healthcare Tech, aiming to address societys toughest challenges through innovative solutions.

Nex Cubed's Website
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85) Launchpad LA

Launchpad LA - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

This premier startup accelerator and seed fund is based in Santa Monica, California, and is designed to support exceptional entrepreneurs. The program offers investments between $25,000 and $100,000, alongside four months of free office space located just one block from the beach. Since its inception, the institution has supported a total of 23 companies, with 19 of those startups successfully funded. Collectively, these companies have raised an impressive $106 million in funding and have created 446 jobs within the industry. The accelerator specializes primarily in technology sectors, including general tech, mobile apps, and SaaS (Software as a Service). Founders Adam Lilling, Mark Suster, and Sam Teller lead the organization, which emphasizes providing startups access to a vast network of mentors, advisors, and investors. This strong support system is aimed at fostering growth and innovation in the Southern California startup ecosystem.

Launchpad LA's Website
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86) Fusion VC

Fusion VC - connecting start-up founders with success

Standing as Israel's foremost pre-seed platform, this organization is specifically designed for local startups aiming to scale in the US. Backed by top-tier global venture capital firms and over 70 serial founders, it empowers early-stage entrepreneurs by providing essential initial institutional capital and a robust support system. Since its inception in 2017, it has funded more than 100 startups, achieving a remarkable combined valuation exceeding $1 billion. The program features a 10-week intensive bootcamp that takes place in key innovation hubs such as Tel Aviv, Silicon Valley, New York, and Los Angeles. Each accepted startup receives a $150,000 investment and benefits from a vast network of mentors, serial founders, and investors. The accelerator focuses on diverse sectors including fintech, general tech, and healthcare tech. Led by founders Guy Katsovich and Yair Vardi, the institution has played a crucial role in helping startups like Paytika secure significant follow-on funding through its programs.

Fusion VC's Website
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87) i/o ventures

i/o ventures - supporting founders in their growth journey

i/o Ventures is an early-stage seed fund based in San Francisco, California, that emphasizes a mentorship-driven approach to supporting technology startups. The accelerator guides founders from product launch through subsequent stages of development, sharing proven strategies for product scaling, revenue growth, and fundraising. With a team of experienced partners and mentors who have successfully started and operated top internet companies, it provides valuable insights that help entrepreneurs navigate common challenges, improve execution, and expedite time-to-market. Focused on various technology sectors, including fintech, gaming, mobile apps, and SaaS (Software as a Service), the organization aims to maximize the potential of newly founded companies through comprehensive mentorship and early-stage investment. Founders Jim Young and Paul Bragiel lead these initiatives, fostering growth and innovation. Recognized for its commitment to nurturing emerging technology companies, the institution equips them with the necessary tools for success.

i/o ventures's Website
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88) Curious Minds

Curious Minds - supporting California's best founders

Curious Minds is a hybrid incubator-accelerator and an angel fund that invests in seed and early-stage ventures, primarily focusing on technology startups. Founded in 2004 and headquartered in West Hollywood, California, it operates across various domains including fintech and general technology. The organization is led by founders Anthony Kelani, David Gonen, and Jonathan Gonen, who are committed to fostering innovation within their ecosystem. The accelerator continues to support and nurture early-stage companies by leveraging its unique blend of incubation and funding. This dynamic framework enables it to play a significant role in the growth of nascent technological enterprises.

Curious Minds's Website
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89) Starburst (Accelerator/Incubator)

Starburst (Accelerator/Incubator) - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

This leading global incubator is dedicated to fostering innovation in the aerospace sector, helping early-stage companies grow in aviation, space, and defense. Founded in 2012, it combines accelerators, strategy consulting, and investment activities to drive aerospace and defense innovation. The accelerator program lasts 52 weeks and provides mentorship from industry leaders and subject matter experts, assisting startups in refining their strategies, pitch development, and capital raising efforts, thereby accelerating product market entry. It has established a robust presence with operations in eight global locations, including Paris, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C., and supports a portfolio of 140 startups advancing technologies such as electric flight, autonomous drones, and AI. The organization collaborates with 60 corporate and government partners to enhance innovation through mentorship and investment. Founded by Abhi Anuket, Francois Chopard, and Sandra Budimir, it is dedicated to connecting startups with essential resources, industry connections, and networking opportunities, solidifying its role as a pivotal force in the dynamic aerospace ecosystem.

Starburst (Accelerator/Incubator)'s Website
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90) Founder Academy

Founder Academy - supporting California's best founders

This prominent 3-month program aims at empowering new and aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those of African origin, aged 18-34. It focuses on addressing local and global challenges through innovative business solutions. Participants are required to commit 15 hours per week, engaging in a structured curriculum that includes workshops, video tutorials, fireside chats, and weekly deliverables. The program comprises three distinct phases: the 'Think' Sprint, where individuals reflect on motivations and conduct market research; the 'Build' Sprint, emphasizing rapid prototype development and user feedback; and the 'Launch' Sprint, which culminates in a Demo Day for pitching to investors and customers, offering opportunities for cash prizes and investments. The initiative is sector-agnostic, welcoming a diverse array of entrepreneurs. Graduates earn a certificate of completion and are eligible for the Accelerator program and potential investment from the ALX Ventures Fund. Under the leadership of founders Duane Wilson and Katrena Friel, this institution fosters a supportive environment for startup success and facilitates connections within a global ecosystem of accelerators, investors, and corporates.

Founder Academy's Website
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91) FORMA Brands

FORMA Brands - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

Serving as an incubator, accelerator, and curator of next-generation beauty brands, this institution launched as a multi-category platform in 2020. It is dedicated to celebrating and supporting innovators who are transforming the beauty industry through creative expression. Backed by 169 investors, the organization boasts a strong financial foundation and network within the sector. It focuses on various categories within the beauty industry, providing the necessary resources and support for emerging brands to thrive. Through its initiatives, the company creates, grows, and assembles unique beauty brands, helping to reshape the landscape of the beauty market.

FORMA Brands's Website
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92) GrowthX

GrowthX - supporting founders in their growth journey

The GrowthX Accelerator is a virtual program designed to support and scale startups by connecting them with the resources and networks of Microsoft. It focuses on four main pillars: Tech Enablement, providing essential technology resources, including a minimum of $25,000 in Azure credits, a GitHub Enterprise License, and Microsoft 365 Licenses; Corporate Readiness, which prepares tech startups for enterprise-level sales by linking them with major corporations and mentors; Financial Readiness, where expert mentors enhance financial and business models; and Investor Readiness, offering insights and exposure to Microsoft's VC partner network. Notable startups from previous cohorts include Spitch, Gener8, Poltio, and Urbantz. The program specializes in various domains such as artificial intelligence, clean energy, e-commerce, and logistics and supply chain. Beyond the core pillars, it provides sales acceleration workshops and access to corporate customers. Founded by Andrew Goldner, Max Menke, Sean Sheppard, and Will Bunker, the institution operates for a duration of 16 weeks, empowering B2B startups to thrive and address unique challenges through comprehensive support.

GrowthX's Website
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93) Code for America

Code for America - building California's entrepreneurial future

An innovative organization focused on transforming government interactions through human-centered technology, they partner with various levels of government to reduce poverty, enhance equity, and improve access to social safety net programs. In 2022, the institution assisted 4.66 million people and facilitated the delivery of $3.34 billion in benefits, showcasing significant impact with a cost-effectiveness of $235 in benefits for every dollar spent on programs. Notably, they aided 3.85 million individuals in accessing food benefits and processed over 1.6 million SNAP applications while helping people access $89 million through their integrated benefits application, MNBenefits. The organization fosters a vibrant community of change agents, operating over 80 Brigade chapters across the U.S. to develop digital tools and promote policy enhancements. Their recent launch of the Opportunity Accelerator (OA) further exemplifies their commitment to promoting economic mobility. Founded by Jennifer Pahlka, they are dedicated to creating a truly human-centered government that works effectively for all citizens by leveraging technology and strategic policy reforms, driving meaningful change in public interest technology.

Code for America's Website
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94) Code For America

Code For America - California's true entrepreneurial hub

This technology nonprofit, founded in 2009, is dedicated to transforming government services through human-centered technology. Their mission emphasizes that government can work effectively for the people, leveraging insights from real individuals to design solutions that improve services and advance equity. In 2022, impactful programs assisted 4.66 million people, delivering benefits amounting to $3.34 billion, showcasing exceptional cost-effectiveness with each dollar spent yielding $235 in benefits. They specifically focused on helping 3.85 million individuals access food benefits and processed over 1.6 million SNAP applications. Founded by Jennifer Pahlka, the institution primarily revolves around public interest technology and digital delivery. It collaborates with government agencies across various levels, striving to reduce poverty and address social challenges through equitable technology solutions. While specific perks of their accelerator are not detailed, the collaborative nature likely fosters networking opportunities, mentorship, and access to a community of innovators committed to public service. The organization continues to demonstrate its significant role in enhancing the relationship between citizens and their government in today's digital age.

Code For America's Website
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95) CITRIS Foundry

CITRIS Foundry - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

CITRIS Foundry serves as the University of California's dedicated accelerator for deep technology startups, providing invaluable support to engineers, scientists, and researchers. With the mission to transform innovative ideas into impactful ventures, it operates across four UC campuses, offering resources, labs, and facilities essential for teams to become venture-ready. Since its inception in 2010, the accelerator has facilitated the success of over 500 VC-backed startups, underscoring the UC system's status as a premier research and startup ecosystem. The organization holds titles as the #1 institution for NSF Graduate Research Fellowships and leads public universities in startup creation according to Pitchbook. Specializing in industries such as Artificial Intelligence, Biotech, Clean Energy, and Robotics, it bridges the gap from lab to market by focusing on IT solutions aimed at addressing societal problems. Founders Alic Chen and Peter Minor guide this initiative, leveraging extensive experience in university-driven innovation and entrepreneurship to navigate the complex startup landscape and foster the next generation of groundbreaking technologies.

CITRIS Foundry's Website
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96) Startup Grind

Startup Grind - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

The world's largest startup community actively fosters education, connections, and opportunities for startups to thrive. With a member base of 5 million across over 600 chapters in 125 countries, it is dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs at various stages, from bootstrapped beginnings to Series A funding. Operating under key values, the institution focuses on building genuine relationships instead of mere contacts, prioritizing altruism, and embracing global citizenship. Half of the team consists of founders who understand the challenges startups face. By connecting these businesses with an extensive network of industry leaders, investors, and partners, they empower innovators from diverse sectors, including Edtech, Fintech, General Tech, and Healthcare Tech. The community offers numerous benefits such as access to global networks, regular events, workshops, and a supportive environment conducive to growth. Founded by Casper Sermsuksan, Derek Andersen, Endri Mataj, and Spencer Nielsen, it has solidified its role as a vital resource for startups navigating the complexities of the entrepreneurial landscape.

Startup Grind's Website
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97) Frost Data Capital

Frost Data Capital - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

Frost Data Capital is a California-based venture capital firm that redefines the creation of compelling big data startups. They specialize in Big Data analytics, leveraging parallel entrepreneurship to benefit investors, entrepreneurs, employees, and partners. The accelerator stands out by maintaining a strong focus on Big Data, creating an ecosystem of related startups that operate similarly. Through the use of Parallel Entrepreneurs, who manage multiple businesses simultaneously, Frost DC aims for scale and significant impact in the startup landscape. The organization seeks experienced leaders to develop founding concepts into successful companies, emphasizing execution and growth over idea generation. With a focus on Big Data startups, Frost DC provides a supportive environment for innovation and growth, particularly in industries like Artificial Intelligence, General Tech, and SaaS. Founded by Stuart Frost, the firm offers seed and early-stage VC funding, operating as both a venture capital investor and startup incubator.

Frost Data Capital's Website
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98) Motus Ventures

Motus Ventures - connecting start-up founders with success

Motus Ventures is a seed venture capital fund and business accelerator dedicated to fostering innovation in the Transportation Industry and the Internet of Things (IoT). Spearheaded by founders Jim DiSanto and Robert Seidl, the organization primarily targets emerging technologies such as connected cars and vehicle-to-vehicle communications. The accelerator aims to enhance safety, alleviate congestion, and reduce energy consumption and pollution across the transportation sector. In addition to transportation, it also explores advancements in various industries, including agriculture technology, artificial intelligence, fintech, real estate technology, and robotics. The focus on pioneering technologies positions the institution as a key player in transforming the transportation landscape.

Motus Ventures's Website
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99) The West Coast Consortium for Technology & Innovation in Pediatrics

The West Coast Consortium for Technology & Innovation in Pediatrics - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

A premier pediatric medical device accelerator based at Lurie Childrens Hospital and Children's Hospital Los Angeles, this organization was established in 2011 and is supported by a series of grants from the FDA's Pediatric Device Consortia program in 2013, 2018, and 2023. It focuses on advancing innovative medical devices tailored to the unique health needs of children. The accelerator boasts a robust national network comprising 25 institutions across eight states as part of its 2023-2028 cycle. Its mission is to encourage the development of safe and effective pediatric devices by collaborating with clinicians, engineers, regulators, and industry stakeholders. This collaboration plays a crucial role in guiding medical device development, ensuring the creation of solutions that specifically serve pediatric patients. By fostering innovation, supporting startups, and engaging a multifaceted ecosystem, the institution significantly contributes to the improvement of children's health through advancing pediatric medical technology.

The West Coast Consortium for Technology & Innovation in Pediatrics's Website
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100) HVF Labs

HVF Labs - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

A venture studio founded by Max Levchin, this organization specializes in creating and launching innovative companies. Emphasizing a people-first approach, they recruit individuals who will actively operate the ventures they develop. By addressing complex industry problems, the studio formulates hypotheses, builds prototypes, and conducts experiments to execute new ideas successfully. Operating across various domains, notably in artificial intelligence, fintech, and general technology, it fosters innovation in multiple sectors. Additionally, a team of in-house specialists, including engineers, product managers, analysts, and designers, collaborates to refine concepts and bring them to fruition. This unique model encourages entrepreneurs with a vision to engage with the venture studio, enhancing the startup ecosystem through a focus on problem-solving via technology and data.

HVF Labs's Website
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101) Tumml

Tumml - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

This nonprofit urban ventures accelerator, founded by Clara Brenner and Julie Lein, is dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs who tackle critical urban challenges. With a clear mission to support innovative solutions to issues such as transportation, farming, and homelessness, the organization has successfully backed a total of 33 startups through a comprehensive four-month program. This initiative provides entrepreneurs with vital mentorship, seed funding, and office space, fostering a collaborative environment aimed at high-growth businesses that significantly enhance community well-being. Notably, one of the program's alumni includes a commuter shuttle service renowned for optimizing transit routes based on user preferences, which was later acquired by Ford. The institution specializes in industries such as Agriculture Tech and Mobile Apps, positioning itself as a leading force in urban innovation. Its unique approach combines expert guidance with access to a robust network of mentors, equipping startups to scale their impact effectively in urban settings.

Tumml's Website
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102) MARL Accelerator

MARL Accelerator - California's true entrepreneurial hub

Located in Fremont, California, this premier early-stage accelerator fund is dedicated to startups innovating within DeepTech sectors, particularly those leveraging 5G technologies. Founded by Amir Khan and Prakash Goswami, the program focuses on empowering the next generation of founders reshaping enterprise solutions. Specializing in mobility, AR/VR, autonomous systems, logistics, and 5G technologies, it offers a comprehensive 12-week accelerator program designed to fast-track startup growth. Participating companies gain access to funding, mentorship from industry experts, essential resources, and a Go-to-Market framework to efficiently target their markets. The organization fosters a vibrant community, allowing startups to connect with fellow founders, investors, and corporate partners. Notable participants have included Max Montrey of SportsTrace, Vinitha Thiyagarajan of PerceiveNow, and Lalit Gautam of SenseGrass, each highlighting the transformative experiences and extensive networking opportunities available. With its hands-on guidance and strong focus on key sectors, this accelerator distinguishes itself in the competitive startup landscape, making it a crucial player for DeepTech companies poised for success.

MARL Accelerator's Website
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103) Founders Floor

Founders Floor - connecting start-up founders with success

An early-stage startup accelerator and investor based in Silicon Valley, this organization provides a dynamic coworking space designed for tech startups and entrepreneurs. They are dedicated to mentoring forward-thinking individuals focused on advancing technological progress. Their three-month accelerator program offers essential tools, advisement, and challenges that are crucial for rapid startup growth, emphasizing a high-intensity environment conducive to productivity. Successful ventures benefit from mentorship by experienced industry professionals who provide guidance in growth hacking, pitch advice, product development, and design. The accelerator facilitates networking through regular events that feature educational series, workshops, and pitch nights. Specializing in various industries including Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Fintech, the institution collaborates with strategic partners to enhance startup success and connects them with venture capitalists for funding opportunities. Notable figures such as Matt Day are integral to its mission of fostering innovative companies. The immersive atmosphere promotes collaboration and iteration, making it an ideal space for startups committed to their growth and technological advancements.

Founders Floor's Website
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104) MARL 5G Accelerator

MARL 5G Accelerator - connecting start-up founders with success

An early-stage accelerator fund, dedicated to startups developing DeepTech products and services for enterprise customers using 5G technology, was founded by Amir Khan and Prakash Goswami. This innovative institution focuses on mobility, AR/VR, autonomous systems, robotics, logistics, and cybersecurity, targeting sectors that stand to benefit greatly from advancements in connectivity. The program spans 12 weeks, aiming to fast-track the growth of promising startups by providing essential funding and resources. In addition, participants receive hands-on mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, ensuring they gain the insights needed for success. Fostering a vibrant community of early-stage investors, startup founders, and corporate venture teams, it facilitates network expansion and collaboration. By leveraging the transformative potential of 5G technology, the accelerator empowers startups to innovate and tackle pressing enterprise challenges. They streamline the path to market with a well-defined Go-To-Market framework, investing in disruptive technologies while nurturing growth and innovation among participants.

MARL 5G Accelerator's Website
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105) Leap Venture Studio

Leap Venture Studio - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

This first pet care-specific startup accelerator is dedicated to accelerating innovation within the expanding pet ecosystem. Backed by key industry players such as Mars Petcare, Michelson Found Animals, and R/GA Ventures, it aims to elevate pet businesses through a robust network of expertise. The organization supports startups with venture capital investment, mentorship, and customized programming, offering selected companies $200,000 in funding during a comprehensive 12-week program that combines two weeks of in-person training with ten weeks of virtual sessions. Notable portfolio companies include Oliver Pets, Rex, Dog Child, Hound, and The Bark Shoppe, each leveraging technology and innovation to enhance the pet care experience. The initiative focuses exclusively on improving the lives of pets and their owners through science and technology. Co-founded by Stephen Plumlee and Winson Wong, this accelerator fosters a thriving community of pet entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders, making it a crucial resource for startups that aspire to drive impact in the pet care sector.

Leap Venture Studio's Website
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106) Illumina Accelerator

Illumina Accelerator - connecting start-up founders with success

Dedicated to unlocking the power of the genome, this accelerator partners with startups to drive innovation in genomics. Co-located with Illumina research and development sites in the San Francisco Bay Area and Cambridge, UK, it runs two six-month funding cycles annually. The organization supports genomic researchers, entrepreneurs, and early-stage companies looking to bring next-generation sequencing (NGS) applications to market. Participants can receive up to $200,000 in convertible notes to aid in data production and fundraising efforts. The program has invested in 74 genomics startups globally, which have collectively secured over $1 billion in venture capital. Specializing in breakthrough applications across therapeutics, diagnostics, agriculture, synthetic biology, and direct-to-consumer markets, it provides essential resources, including mentorship, lab space, and access to sequencing technologies. Founded by notable figures such as David R. Walt and John Stuelpnagel, this institution plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of genomics and fostering entrepreneurial success in various industries, including agriculture tech, biotech, healthcare tech, and SaaS.

Illumina Accelerator's Website
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107) All Turtles

All Turtles - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

All Turtles is an accelerator program dedicated to nurturing and supporting early-stage startups with a focus on innovation and technology that addresses real-world problems. The organization works across diverse domains, specifically emphasizing fields such as artificial intelligence, healthcare technology, general technology, and robotics. While the exact number of startups associated with the program is not detailed, it boasts a diverse portfolio that showcases various sectors. Essential resources, mentorship, and educational opportunities are provided to help entrepreneurs succeed, including access to experienced mentors, co-working spaces, networking events, and demo days to connect with potential investors. Key individuals behind the initiative include founders Jessica Collier, Jonathan Cifuentes, and Phil Libin, who bring valuable expertise and leadership. By fostering a supportive startup community, this institution plays a crucial role in empowering startups to create products that matter, thereby driving meaningful impact through technology and innovation.

All Turtles's Website
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108) Xoogler.co

Xoogler.co - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

This vibrant community comprises over 30,000 members, including alumni and current employees of Google, who collaborate to support each other's ventures in the startup ecosystem. The platform unites startup founders, executives, domain experts, investors, and professionals, extending the sense of community that members experienced during their tenure at the tech giant. It is sector agnostic, leveraging the diverse backgrounds of its members to explore a wide array of industries. Founded by Christopher Fong, Ethan Beard, and Kushagra Shrivastava, the organization offers numerous events such as TGI Machine Learning Events, Personal Finance Series, and Womens Career Series, which foster networking and mentorship. Members can engage in mentorship pairings, access insights into fundraising strategies, and utilize a dedicated fund aimed at investing in startups established by ex-Google employees. Assistance with job hunting, talent matching, and vetted services in legal, design, and development are additional benefits available to members. Noteworthy Demo Days have been hosted in San Francisco and the Asia-Pacific region, providing startups with a crucial platform to showcase their innovations and connect with potential investors. The collective expertise within this community promotes innovation, mentorship, and investment opportunities in the startup landscape.

Xoogler.co's Website
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109) ExploraMed

ExploraMed - connecting start-up founders with success

ExploraMed is a venture-backed medical device incubator headquartered in Mountain View, California, dedicated to improving patients' quality of life through innovative, cost-effective device solutions. Established in 1995, the organization has created eight impactful companies through its four prior funds. Notable ventures include Acclarent, which specializes in minimally invasive balloon sinuplasty devices; NeoTract, focused on less invasive treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia; Willow, renowned for its mobile breast pump design; and Moximed, developing advanced solutions for knee osteoarthritis. The latest funding round raised $32.5 million, with three investors contributing to its mission. The incubator operates across various medical technology domains, including ENT surgery, urology, women's health, and orthopedics. With a strong emphasis on patient-driven solutions, it leverages expertise, resources, and a robust network to foster innovation in the healthcare technology and biotech industries. Josh Makower, one of the key founders, plays a significant role in steering the organization towards its goal of addressing unmet health needs through pioneering medical devices.

ExploraMed's Website
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110) Silicon Catalyst

Silicon Catalyst - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

The world's only startup incubator dedicated exclusively to semiconductor solutions aims to support semiconductor startups from ideation to prototype and beyond. Focusing on areas such as photonics, MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems), sensors, IP (Intellectual Property), materials, and life sciences, it has engaged with over 1,000 startups globally, admitting more than 100 companies into its 24-month customized incubation program. This program includes a focused semiconductor curriculum and guidance from experienced partners. Additionally, the organization enjoys partnerships with industry giants like TSMC, Synopsys, and Arm, providing startups with several million dollars in in-kind goods and services, totaling over $150 million. Collaborating with over 300 venture capital firms, they have facilitated over $600 million in venture investments for its startups. The incubator also maintains strong ties with universities, accelerators, and government agencies, resulting in over $100 million in grants. Founded by Daniel Armbrust and Rick Lazansky, this institution has expanded its global outreach and launched a UK-based accelerator focused on silicon solutions in October 2023, further solidifying its position as a critical resource for semiconductor entrepreneurs.

Silicon Catalyst's Website
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111) ICA Fund

ICA Fund - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

ICA Fund provides Bay Area small businesses with essential mentoring, investments, and connections to facilitate growth. Its 12-week business accelerator program is specifically designed for underestimated entrepreneurs, focusing on closing the gender and racial wealth gap. Participants benefit from comprehensive coaching, connections, and access to capital, enabling them to strengthen their fundamentals and become investment-ready. The program includes distinct tracks such as Growth Strategy, People Strategy, and Capital Strategy, aimed at developing effective business and team strategies while preparing for investment opportunities. Entrepreneurs engage in structured workshops and receive personalized guidance from high-caliber advisors. The accelerator fosters a strong community, allowing participants to network with fellow business owners and share valuable insights. Industries supported include Healthcare Tech and Social Media. Those who have taken part in the program commend its relevance and the quality of instruction, solidifying the organization's pivotal role for high-potential businesses aiming for growth and meaningful contributions.

ICA Fund's Website
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112) Breakthrough Lab

Breakthrough Lab - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

Breakthrough Lab (B-Lab) is an intensive 8-week summer accelerator program hosted by Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), specifically designed for student entrepreneurs. Operating during June and July, the initiative focuses on developing high-impact ventures that offer scalable solutions to significant challenges. Each participant receives a financial award of $4,000, allowing them to dedicate their full attention to their projects. The program fosters a collaborative environment, providing tailored mentorship, co-working space at the Nelson Center for Entrepreneurship, and a community of fellow founders. Innovation is encouraged across various sectors, including Edtech, Fintech, and Healthcare Tech. Key individuals involved in the establishment and management of this accelerator include notable founders such as James Manning, John Roma Skok, Moses Brown, and Nicholas Brown. This supportive ecosystem aims to cultivate a diverse entrepreneurial environment, enhancing the overall entrepreneurial landscape at Brown University.

Breakthrough Lab's Website
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113) GSD Venture Studios

GSD Venture Studios - building California's entrepreneurial future

GSD Venture Studios is a venture studio that specializes in empowering resilient entrepreneurs to launch and scale global companies. With a commitment to diversity, 36% of the seventh cohort of 12 companies are led by women, minorities, or founders from emerging markets. The accelerator spans 10 weeks and culminates in a demo day with U.S. investors, focusing on various tech verticals, including Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and the Metaverse. Participating start-ups receive funding and personalized support through the GSD SuperScaler program, which includes continuous mentorship and access to a vast network. Notable companies in the latest cohort include AcceleratXR, a platform for multiplayer gaming experiences, AISpotter, which enhances sports video clips for better engagement, and Keble, a fractional real estate investment platform targeting Africans. The organization is led by founders Derek Distenfield and Gary A. Fowler, operating with a hands-on approach by taking senior operational roles within its portfolio companies to drive growth effectively.

GSD Venture Studios's Website
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114) Peachscore

Peachscore - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

This organization serves as an influential catalyst for startup ecosystems, dedicated to democratizing access to capital, education, and connections for founders through a combination of human expertise and advanced technology. Its Equity-Free Data-Driven Accelerator Program empowers early-stage companies and small-to-medium businesses while ensuring they retain ownership and control over their ventures. By leveraging data analytics and scalable technologies, it supports startups globally, boasting an impressive representation of 50% minority and female founders in its October Cohort, which includes notable companies such as SHEQONOMI, NINA, and StarkDrones. The 12-week virtual program offers valuable resources and mentorship, enabling startups to implement data-driven strategies for growth. Collaborative partnerships with organizations like Payani Group, Los Alamos National Laboratory, and Startup Science further augment the accelerator's offerings. While specific industries are not mentioned, the program encompasses areas such as Blockchain, Cybersecurity, Fintech, Personal Finance, and SaaS. Under the leadership of founder Alex Mojtahedi, this institution is reshaping traditional acceleration models and establishing itself as a pivotal force in nurturing startups worldwide.

Peachscore's Website
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115) Inovexus

Inovexus - building California's entrepreneurial future

Inovexus stands as the first cross-border acceleration fund dedicated to supporting early-stage European tech companies with global ambitions. Founded by Philippe Roche, the program is designed for passionate entrepreneurs who aim to transform industries and think globally from inception. By facilitating a unique 24-week acceleration program, the organization empowers pre-seed and seed tech startups with both funding and mentorship from a global network of smart-money investors and mentors. This risk-free initiative ensures that startups cover the majority of their costs only after securing funding. With a funding milestone of approximately $154 million raised by its startups, it caters to B2B early-stage companies across various domains, including fintech, software as a service, and personal finance. The accelerator provides invaluable resources through real-world experience and knowledge sharing, positioning itself as an innovative leader in the European early-stage funding landscape. Startups within the community gain unmatched exposure to a diverse group of mentors and investors, enhancing their opportunities for growth and global capital access. The institution is committed to building a substantial portfolio of meaningful startups that resonate with the aspirations of entrepreneurs aiming to change the world.

Inovexus's Website
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116) Inovexus

Inovexus - building California's entrepreneurial future

Inovexus is a pioneering cross-border acceleration fund that supports early-stage European tech companies with global ambitions. Founded by Philippe Roche, the organization is dedicated to building the future of European early-stage funding. Its unique approach centers on empowering founders to think globally from day one, enabling access to crucial funding in current and upcoming rounds. The 24-week acceleration program facilitates engagement with a diverse group of successful cross-cultural entrepreneurs and top co-investors from the US, Europe, and Asia. The institution specializes in tech sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, E-commerce, and Fintech, among others. It has curated a notable portfolio, including startups like Leadbay, which utilizes AI to generate sales leads; Kadow Club, which enhances point-of-sale growth through gaming; and Hubwork, connecting brands to new audiences via TikTok-style videos. Founders benefit from tailored acceleration programs and mentorship from industry leaders, including Fabrice Grinda, a founding partner of FJ Labs. The focus is not merely on chasing unicorns but rather on crafting compelling narratives with passionate entrepreneurs committed to making a significant impact.

Inovexus's Website
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117) Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator

Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator - building California's entrepreneurial future

The organization is a non-profit dedicated to fostering an inclusive green economy in Los Angeles, California. It focuses on accelerating the commercialization of clean technologies, bringing innovation to the forefront while engaging with startups across various sectors, including clean energy, environmental technology, and renewable energy. Its mission encompasses unlocking innovation, transforming markets, and enhancing communities through sustainable practices. The institution plays a critical role in providing a supportive ecosystem for startups, offering workforce development programs, pilot opportunities for technology demonstrations, and facilitating community building among stakeholders and policymakers. Founded by Fred Walti II and Neal Anderson, the initiative aims to revolutionize urban environments with projects in transportation, energy efficiency, and sustainable city planning. Through its efforts, the organization contributes significantly to the advancement of clean technologies and sustainable development, ensuring a greener future for the people of Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator's Website
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118) OneValley

OneValley - supporting founders in their growth journey

Formerly known as GSVlabs, this global entrepreneurship platform is designed to support individuals, startups, and corporations in their pursuit of innovation and accelerated growth. It fosters innovation communities worldwide, directly aiding over 25,000 members and benefiting more than 175,000 through strategic B2B partnerships. The venture arm specializes in pre-seed and seed investments, providing essential capital, resources, and talent to startups from the outset. The accelerator focuses on a diverse range of industries, including biotechnology, fintech, edtech, and artificial intelligence. Enhancing its offerings through the OneValley Passport, recognized as the worlds most comprehensive online innovation platform, the organization also operates physical innovation centers that facilitate collaboration and networking. These spaces, along with online global communities, provide founders with crucial resources and opportunities for shared knowledge. The institution was founded by Dmitriy Pavlov and Kayvan Baroumand, who have been instrumental in establishing its mission and facilitating growth within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

OneValley's Website
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119) New Energy Nexus

New Energy Nexus - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

An international non-profit organization dedicated to supporting clean energy entrepreneurs through funding, accelerators, and extensive networks, focuses on fostering innovation in the climate finance sector. The NEX 2024 Climate Fintech Accelerator offers resources for business growth, product development, and valuable networking opportunities. This year-long program emphasizes two primary application areas: Web3 in Sustainability, examining the role of blockchain and decentralized technologies in promoting sustainable practices, and Cross-Border Carbon Management, which addresses emissions on a global scale. Covering eight distinct domains, including Payments, Banking, Lending, Investing, Trading, Risk Analysis, Insurance Technology (Insurtech), and Regulatory Technology (Regtech), the accelerator is open to startups worldwide. It is designed to aid the most innovative climate fintech entrepreneurs. In the previous year's cohort, 14 startups participated and supported over 15 industry-specific events. Key benefits of the program include mentorship from industry experts, a focus on customer acquisition, and resources for enhancing startup capacity. Founded by Danny Kennedy, the institution plays a pivotal role in bolstering the clean energy startup ecosystem.

New Energy Nexus's Website
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120) Snap Yellow Accelerator

Snap Yellow Accelerator - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

The organization serves as a launchpad for creative minds and entrepreneurs focused on developing the next generation of media companies. It specializes in supporting individuals building Augmented Reality (AR) applications and companies poised for transformation through AR technology. While there is no specific requirement to develop exclusively on Snap's platform, participants are encouraged to share the vision of harnessing AR's potential. Led by founder Michael Su, the program runs for a duration of 14 weeks, fostering innovation in both AR/VR and general tech industries. The accelerator is dedicated to empowering the next wave of pioneering businesses in the AR space.

Snap Yellow Accelerator's Website
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121) Activate Global

Activate Global - building California's entrepreneurial future

Founded in 2015, this 501(c)3 nonprofit organization is dedicated to empowering entrepreneurial scientists and engineers to transform their research into impactful products and businesses. The accelerator collaborates with U.S.-based funders and research institutions to support its fellowship program, which provides financial support, mentorship, and access to vital resources. Originating from the Cyclotron Road initiative at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, they foster innovation particularly in the fields of science, technology, and engineering, with a notable focus on combating climate change and addressing global challenges. The fellowship offers a supportive community, networking opportunities with industry leaders and investors, and access to research facilities and expertise. Key individuals associated with the institution include founder Ilan Gur, who has been instrumental in guiding its mission. Success stories of fellows highlight their significant impact, emphasizing the organizations role in facilitating breakthrough innovations. The accelerator serves industries including artificial intelligence, general tech, and robotics, underscoring its commitment to transformative solutions.

Activate Global's Website
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122) MBC BioLabs

MBC BioLabs - supporting California's best founders

MBC BioLabs is the premier biotech incubator in the Bay Area, designed to support early-stage life-science companies with resources, flexible lab space, and expert guidance. Catering to over 125 resident companies, the organization fosters innovation in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and related fields. The incubator offers the necessary infrastructure for startups working on novel therapeutic programs, allowing them to efficiently accelerate their research and development efforts while minimizing costs. Access to millions of dollars' worth of state-of-the-art equipment further empowers these companies to convert creative ideas into impactful solutions for global health challenges. Notably, last year's winners of the Astellas Future Innovator Prize, Bespoke Therapeutics and Cellinfinity, exemplify the caliber of startups nurtured within this ecosystem; they benefited from one year's priority usage of its lab facilities and collaboration opportunities with Astellas, enhancing their therapeutic advancements. Founded by Douglas Crawford, this institution uniquely positions itself as a launchpad for biotech entrepreneurs seeking to optimize their potential and make significant contributions to the life sciences industry.

MBC BioLabs's Website
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123) Endurance Companies

Endurance Companies - supporting founders in their growth journey

This organization operates as a holding company that builds new ventures to tackle meaningful problems, especially focusing on sustainability and innovation. The ENDURANCE accelerator is a strategic initiative launched on October 1, 2023, aimed at developing a green acceleration methodology for EU clusters. It promotes eco-innovation and aligns with the European Green Deal strategies. This program will support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in their transition toward a greener industrial landscape, running until September 30, 2026. While the specific number of startups and investors associated with the program is not disclosed, its design empowers participants by channeling knowledge and resources to facilitate sustainable practices. The company specializes in clean energy, environmental tech, and renewable energy sectors, illustrating its commitment to driving environmental impact. Although specific perks for participants are not detailed, the overarching aim of the initiative reflects a strong dedication to fostering sustainable development and supporting entrepreneurial efforts within the green industry.

Endurance Companies's Website
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124) Long Beach Accelerator

Long Beach Accelerator - California's true entrepreneurial hub

This organization provides early-stage startups with essential resources and a supportive environment to flourish. An innovative partnership between public, private, and academic entities offers a comprehensive 4-month program designed to equip founders with the necessary skills and insights for success. The first three months focus on weekly workshops and mentorship, emphasizing market fit, business strategy, development, and marketing. The final month culminates in a demo day, facilitating opportunities for startups to secure additional seed funding for future growth. Investment averages $100K in exchange for 7% equity in participating companies, providing vital capital through the LBA fund to aid in acceleration and expansion. While sector agnostic, the initiative focuses on fostering technology and innovative startups, leveraging the vibrant ecosystem and diverse culture of Long Beach. Additionally, the program enhances participants' access to government resources for navigating regulatory landscapes and builds valuable industry partnerships. Notable founders and successful startups have benefited from this dynamic initiative, further establishing the area as an ideal location for entrepreneurial endeavors.

Long Beach Accelerator's Website
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125) HMC INQ

HMC INQ - California's true entrepreneurial hub

This premier startup accelerator, based in Santa Monica, California, is dedicated to fostering innovation among Harvey Mudd College students and alumni. Operating on a 10-week intensive basis, it provides funding at any stage from pre-seed to seed, Series A, and later rounds. To date, the organization has invested over $50 million into various startups, demonstrating a strong commitment to empowering entrepreneurs within the HMC community. Adopting a generalist approach, it supports a diverse range of business ideas across sectors such as blockchain, fintech, and personal finance. Startups receive invaluable mentorship and connections to industry experts, along with additional funding opportunities through partnerships like Gaingels via the Harveys Angels Syndicate. Founded by Josh Jones, a co-founder of DreamHost, and Gary Evans, a former professor of entrepreneurial leadership at HMC, the program is exclusively available to graduates of the college. Notable alumni have greatly benefitted from this initiative, focusing on taking promising startups from their early stages through to potential IPOs.

HMC INQ's Website
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126) Imagine H2O

Imagine H2O - connecting start-up founders with success

This international startup accelerator was established in 2008 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated exclusively to fostering water-related innovations. Over its 15-year history, it has supported 115 startups, assisting them in developing their solutions, commercializing technologies, and entering new markets. With a unique zero-equity model, the organization does not take any ownership stake in the startups it mentors. It has been instrumental in raising over $1 billion in early-stage funding for its portfolio companies. Focusing on various specializations, including artificial intelligence, decarbonization, IoT networks, and novel treatment technologies, the program operates virtually and welcomes startups from around the globe. Comprehensive support is provided through mentorship, networking opportunities, and connections to investors and strategic partners. The program typically spans 40 weeks, enabling participants to bridge their solutions into new regions. Founded by Matthew Evans, Scott Bryan, and Tamin Pechet, this accelerator plays a pivotal role in addressing global water challenges and advancing innovative water technologies.

Imagine H2O's Website
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127) Singularity (Consulting Services (B2B))

Singularity (Consulting Services (B2B)) - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

This renowned educational center and startup accelerator, founded in 2008, focuses on leadership development and innovation programs centered around exponential technologies, including robotics, nanotechnology, and biotechnology. With approximately 603 employees, the organization has garnered the support of 24 investors and successfully completed several funding rounds, raising $22 million in Series A in December 2015 and an additional $1.28 million in later-stage VC funding in December 2019. The accelerator provides invaluable resources for individuals and organizations looking to navigate the rapid technological advancements of the modern era. Key founders of this influential institution include notable figures such as Barney Pell, Bob Richards, David S. Rose, Peter Diamandis, and Raymond Kurzweil, among others. By emphasizing innovative partnerships and educational programs, it plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and supporting startups poised to make significant impacts across diverse industries such as biotech, Edtech, and robotics.

Singularity (Consulting Services (B2B))'s Website
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128) UCI Applied Innovation

UCI Applied Innovation - building California's entrepreneurial future

UCI Beall Applied Innovation is a pivotal accelerator based at the University of California, Irvine, which has been at the forefront of innovation and entrepreneurship since 1965. Located at 5270 California Ave, Irvine, CA, it aims to bridge the gap between UCI-developed knowledge and industry needs to accelerate impactful discoveries. The initiative focuses on fostering an inclusive environment that supports faculty, innovators, and entrepreneurs to improve lives through access to advanced technologies and ideas. Four core units refine entrepreneurship education, cultivate a research-oriented mindset, and enhance connections between the university, industry, and the community. The accelerator plays a crucial role in creating jobs and driving economic growth within the Orange County region. Daniel G. Aldrich is a notable figure behind this initiative, which serves a variety of industries, including biotech, edtech, general tech, and healthcare tech. Furthermore, the Cove @ UCI stands as a state-of-the-art facility that nurtures a vibrant ecosystem for entrepreneurs, bringing together innovators, investors, and industry leaders.

UCI Applied Innovation's Website
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129) Starttech Ventures

Starttech Ventures - building California's entrepreneurial future

Starttech Ventures is an established investment firm and venture builder specializing in early-stage B2B SaaS (Software as a Service) startups, focusing on the North American market. The organization partners with entrepreneurs, acting as co-founders, and provides essential financial resources, infrastructure, and a dedicated team of professionals to guide startups from inception through to scaling. Their mission is to propel companies from pre-product and pre-revenue stages to successfully closing Series A rounds or achieving sustainable profitability. Notable startups that have benefited from their support include Epignosis and Yodeck. The firm operates with a core team led by founders Katerina Kastriti and Vangelis Mihalopoulos, ensuring that they meet the unique needs of each venture. Additionally, it attracts prominent investors such as Insight Partners and PeakSpan Capital to bolster its portfolio. The in-house venture building team enhances startup capabilities and knowledge sharing, creating an entrepreneurial ecosystem that prioritizes employee stock options and job security. This comprehensive support system firmly positions the organization as a key player in the competitive tech landscape, particularly within the fintech and SaaS industries.

Starttech Ventures's Website
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130) Plug and Play Fintech

Plug and Play Fintech - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

The accelerator is a prominent 12-week program that runs biannually, specifically designed to connect early-to-growth stage startups with some of the largest financial institutions globally. This initiative focuses on driving innovation in financial services and facilitates the launch of pilots, proofs-of-concept (POCs), and significant business development opportunities. It boasts a vast network of over 50,000 startups, offering participants valuable insights into industry trends. Recently, a partnership with Visa was established to introduce the Inclusive Fintech Accelerator, aimed at promoting diversity by empowering founders from various backgrounds, including women, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community. Selected founders benefit from strategic guidance, access to Visa's products and insights, preferential treatment for Visa's Fast Track, and mentorship from industry experts, alongside networking opportunities within its extensive ecosystem. Founders of the organization include Ali Safavi, Jackie Hernandez, Jojo Flores, and Saeed Amidi, further establishing a commitment to fostering innovation in fintech. Through these efforts, a more inclusive and innovative environment is cultivated within the global financial technology landscape.

Plug and Play Fintech's Website
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131) Vebu Labs

Vebu Labs - connecting start-up founders with success

Vebu Labs is a corporate venture studio and product development incubator dedicated to revolutionizing the food supply chain through custom automation solutions. Led by founders Buck Jordan and Matt Lucido, the organization aims to address significant challenges within the food industry, such as labor shortages, rising wages, and high employee turnover. By leveraging advanced automation technology, it collaborates with prominent corporate partners in sectors including Quick Service Restaurants (QSR), fast casual dining, casual dining, grocery, and specialty markets. The innovation studio focuses on transforming the entire food supply chain to enhance efficiency and operational effectiveness. With expertise in robotics, hardware engineering, software solutions, and regulatory compliance, this institution is committed to driving innovation through automation. Its efforts position it as a pivotal player in the evolution of the food industry.

Vebu Labs's Website
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132) Underdog Labs

Underdog Labs - supporting founders in their growth journey

Underdog Labs is a boutique startup accelerator and pre-seed fund located in the San Francisco Bay Area and New England. This organization is dedicated to supporting early-stage entrepreneurs as they navigate the critical milestones of building successful companies. Led by experienced startup founders and successful angel investors, they offer engineering, product, and design resources to help member entrepreneurs develop prototypes and bring products to market. The firm runs the Spark Program, designed for aspiring entrepreneurs at the outset of their journey. This free program includes a series of virtual meetings covering essential topics such as product-market fit, capital needs, and strategic planning. Specializing in early-stage initiatives across various industries, the accelerator has established an impressive network to help founders address critical challenges. It has facilitated successful exits for notable companies such as ZipRealty, OpenTable, and Trulia. Founders within the program benefit from access to valuable resources tailored to their specific needs. David Hehman plays a key role in leading the organization, reinforcing its commitment to turning innovative ideas into thriving ventures.

Underdog Labs's Website
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133) Z Fellows

Z Fellows - California's true entrepreneurial hub

This distinctive accelerator is designed for ambitious technical founders looking to expedite their projects. Offering a unique one-week program, participants receive a financial boost of $10,000 to fully commit to their ideas without external distractions. The program is tailored for various sectors, including consumer, social, enterprise, healthcare, edtech, fintech, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, crypto, Web3, AI, ML, climate, and biotech. Alongside the cash support, participants have the option for equity investment at a $1 billion cap, further enhancing their funding opportunities. Mentorship is a core component, with access to industry stalwarts such as Marc Randolph (Founder of Netflix), Kevin Hartz (Founder of Eventbrite), and Naval Ravikant (Founder of AngelList), providing invaluable insights. This initiative fosters a vibrant community of early technical thinkers, encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing. Founded by Cory Levy, it aims to propel innovative startups and supports entrepreneurs in navigating the initial stages of their ventures, whether they focus on groundbreaking AI solutions or climate initiatives.

Z Fellows's Website
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134) Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator

Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

Launched in January 2019, this notable non-dilutive accelerator was collaboratively established by UC Berkeleys Haas School of Business, SCET of Berkeley Engineering, and Blockchain at Berkeley. It has successfully supported 110 global teams, which have collectively raised over $620 million in follow-on funding. The program focuses on various industries including blockchain, edtech, fintech, gaming, healthcare tech, and renewable energy. With rich resources available both on and off campus, the organization leverages a broad network and fosters a community centered on blockchain innovation. Participants have access to a talent pool of over 20,000 individuals through diverse marketing channels, along with dedicated sessions led by industry experts covering crucial topics such as raising capital and branding. Notably, more than 60% of participating teams have achieved follow-on funding, establishing this initiative as one of the leading university-based blockchain accelerators globally. The next significant event, the 2024 Demo Day, is scheduled for April 12, 2024, continuing its mission to empower entrepreneurs and promote advancements in blockchain technology.

Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator's Website
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135) Mach49

Mach49 - supporting founders in their growth journey

The company is a venture-driven growth accelerator that empowers ambitious organizations to unlock disruptive growth through both venture building and venture investing. By leveraging a wealth of experience from its team, which includes founders, operators, board members, and venture capitalists, it focuses on executing high-potential ventures. The team's average experience spans 21.5 years, with nearly 10 years spent in CxO roles. Collectively, they have founded 563 startups, achieving 145 exits and raising $6.4 billion in total funding for those ventures. Having collaborated with 292 Fortune 500 companies and mentored over 1,200 startups, the institution specializes across multiple sectors including fintech, real estate tech, renewable energy, and general technology. Notable founders include Brad Sharek, James Beriker, Jason Yotopoulos, Linda Yates, and Russ Lampert. The organization stands out in its commitment to building new businesses that address global challenges, primarily in enterprise, construction, and technology sectors, while also fostering innovation and sustainable growth.

Mach49's Website
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136) Draper Goren Holm

Draper Goren Holm - supporting founders in their growth journey

A leading fintech venture studio and fund, this organization focuses on incubating and accelerating early-stage startups within the blockchain and fintech sectors. Founded by industry stalwarts Tim Draper, Alon Goren, and Josef Holm, it partners with exceptional teams around the globe to position them for co-investments and support from its fund. The accelerator specializes in providing strategic business advisory services, formal introductions to the Draper Venture Network, and valuable perks such as discounts on major platforms like AWS and Google Cloud. Its commitment to fostering innovation in blockchain technology is evident. Dedicated to empowering the next generation of groundbreaking startups, the institution facilitates their growth and success in the competitive tech landscape.

Draper Goren Holm's Website
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137) Spearhead (VC)

Spearhead (VC) - California's true entrepreneurial hub

Spearhead, founded in 2018, is a well-established accelerator program dedicated to funding and mentoring founders with up to $1 million of investing capital to support other entrepreneurs. With a $35 million fund, each cohort of founders benefits from 15% carry and check-writing authority. Spearhead, powered by AngelList Angel Funds, ensures legal setup, back-office management, and operational expenses for the fund. The program boasts a strong investor network including Jeff Fagnan, Naval Ravikant, Cack Wilhelm, Elad Gil, Jake Zeller, and others. While not specifying specialization domains, Spearhead focuses on empowering founders to transition into angel investors, excelling in early-stage investments and supporting remarkable startups. Participants enjoy access to exciting investment opportunities, mentorship from experienced investors, and administrative support, thanks to AngelList Angel Funds. Spearhead recently announced a $100 million fourth fund aimed at nurturing founders into top-tier VC investors. Based in San Francisco, Spearhead actively seeks new investments in a sector-agnostic approach. Jeff Fagnan is among the notable founders associated with Spearhead.

Spearhead (VC)'s Website
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138) Startup Studio by Mozilla Builders Incubator

Startup Studio by Mozilla Builders Incubator - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

An innovative program dedicated to nurturing early-stage startups focused on positively transforming the internet, this initiative was launched with a call to action to 'fix-the-internet' and attracted over 1,500 submissions, resulting in more than a hundred active projects. It highlights its commitment to invest $75,000 in exchange for 3.5% equity through a post-money SAFE agreement, fostering a diverse array of projects spanning industries such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, General Tech, Mobile Apps, and Social Media. This three-month incubator not only provides financial investment but also offers mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to a vast ecosystem, positioning startups for success and product traction. Founded by Blake Ross and Dave Hyatt, the program emphasizes innovative solutions in internet privacy, security, and open-source software, resonating with the ethos of impactful internet projects like Firefox and Wikipedia. By supporting such initiatives, the organization aims to build a new generation of startups that fully realize the internet's potential beyond mere profit.

Startup Studio by Mozilla Builders Incubator's Website
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139) MVP Lab by Mozilla Builders Incubator

MVP Lab by Mozilla Builders Incubator - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

An experimental startup incubator designed to reshape the internet by investing in people, projects, and technologies, it launched in 2020 with the goal of empowering founders committed to 'fixing the internet.' The program provides pre-startup teams with $16,000 in funding and has successfully invested in over 80 initiatives, supporting both for-profit and non-profit ventures across various domains including search, artificial intelligence, decentralized web, and combating misinformation. Founded by notable figures Blake Ross and Dave Hyatt, the organization operates over an 8-week duration, offering mentorship and resources to help participants navigate their entrepreneurial journeys. With a strong focus on positive impact rather than solely financial gain, this incubator aims to foster innovation and contribute significantly to improving the digital landscape, drawing inspiration from successful internet initiatives like Firefox, Wikipedia, and Ethereum.

MVP Lab by Mozilla Builders Incubator's Website
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140) Bishop Ranch Intelligence Innovation Accelerator

Bishop Ranch Intelligence Innovation Accelerator - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

Founded in 2017, this premier integrated data innovation accelerator is dedicated to fostering ventures in machine learning and artificial intelligence. It runs a comprehensive 12-week program designed to empower early-stage entrepreneurs by providing essential tools, expert resources, courses, and mentorship. Specializing in various domains, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing, the institution creates a collaborative community that unites specialists in emerging technologies, analytics, marketing, sales, UX, and business development. The program supports seed-stage companies, equipping them to build impactful businesses. Key figures leading this initiative include founders Jon Brooks, Les Schmidt, and Melissa Ross, who have cultivated a vibrant ecosystem for innovation. Through robust resources and networks, the organization is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs succeed in the rapidly evolving fields of data-driven innovation.

Bishop Ranch Intelligence Innovation Accelerator's Website
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141) FalconX (Financial Services)

FalconX (Financial Services) - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

This technology accelerator and prime brokerage specializes in digital assets, primarily catering to leading financial institutions. It aims to revolutionize institutional access to the crypto markets by bridging traditional finance with cutting-edge technology. With a remarkable track record, the organization has executed over $1 trillion in trading volume and facilitated over $100 billion in loan originations, supporting more than 600 institutions. Offering access to over 400 tokens, it stands out as the first and only CFTC-registered cryptocurrency swap dealer, proving its credibility in a complex industry. The 360 platform enhances operational efficiency, while white-glove support ensures institutions receive tailored solutions to meet specific needs. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, the company aggregates liquidity from more than 70 venues, providing clients access to the deepest liquidity pool in the market. Founded by B. V. Jagadeesh and Raju Indukuri, this institution operates at the intersection of blockchain and fintech, driven by a team of experts from leading financial institutions and tech firms, making it a trusted partner for sophisticated digital asset solutions.

FalconX (Financial Services)'s Website
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142) Troy Labs

Troy Labs - connecting start-up founders with success

This student-run organization operates under the auspices of the USC Lloyd Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies, designed to empower the next generation of USC start-ups. The core of its offering is the BUILD Accelerator, an 8-week program that supports 4-5 selected USC startups. This accelerator provides extensive mentorship from experienced founders and industry leaders, along with access to valuable resources in technology, design, marketing, and finance. Since its inception, over 70 startups have benefited from this initiative, showcasing a diverse range of domains, including fintech, general tech, personal finance, and SaaS. The program culminates in a pitch competition and offers equity-free funding to participants. Furthermore, the organization nurtures an entrepreneurial community through its IGNITE initiative, featuring fireside chats and workshops, along with hosting USC's largest student-run entrepreneurship conference, attracting over 1,000 attendees annually. Key founders include Ankur Karwal, Ashan Marla, Diego Socorro, and Zach Sullens, who spearhead this impactful venture platform that connects visionary entrepreneurs with investors and cultivates innovative talent within the university.

Troy Labs's Website
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143) Shifamed

Shifamed - building California's entrepreneurial future

Shifamed LLC is a progressive medical technology incubator and innovation hub founded by Amr Salahieh in 2007. With a vision centered on improving health outcomes through technology, it accelerates advancements in the medtech industry by fostering a culture of inquiry and agility, often starting with the question, 'What if?' The incubator emphasizes speed and efficiency by minimizing unnecessary layers and processes, enabling rapid innovation while maintaining high standards. The ecosystem integrates initial capital, engineering expertise, manufacturing support, and state-of-the-art facilities for collaboration and iteration. Since its inception, the organization has successfully exited six companies, including NuVera Medical, which was acquired by Biosense Webster, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, in 2021. Mentoring and coaching are priorities to support both employees and portfolio companies, while promoting a work-life balance that enhances overall performance. By focusing on key areas within the biotech and healthcare tech sectors, they remain committed to the mission of creating a world where people can live longer, healthier lives with fewer medical interventions.

Shifamed's Website
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144) BRIIA

BRIIA - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

The Startup Accelerator Program is an integrated data innovation initiative designed to develop early-stage companies into investment-ready ventures. With a focus on artificial intelligence, machine learning, natural language processing, and related technologies, the program prepares startups to create competitive differentiators and become category leaders. Spanning a duration of 13 weeks, it provides personalized attention, mentoring, and access to a vast network of resources. Notable founders include Jon Brooks, Les Schmidt, and Melissa Ross, who lead the initiative to fuel AI-powered businesses across various industries, including healthcare, housing, and general technology. The organization works diligently to de-risk investments for accepted companies, positioning graduates favorably for strategic fundraising. Its mission is to create AI-driven companies that attract investor interest, facilitating innovation and fostering growth among startups aiming to emerge as potent 'Category Kings' in their respective markets.

BRIIA's Website
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145) Not Impossible Labs

Not Impossible Labs - supporting California's best founders

Not Impossible Labs is an award-winning technology incubator and content studio with a mission defined by the principle of 'Technology for the Sake of Humanity. Founded by Mick Ebeling, the organization seeks to change the world through innovative technology and storytelling, tackling what they call 'absurdities'unmet needs that demand solutions. Projects undertaken span various domains, including healthcare, accessibility, and social impact. A standout initiative utilizes wearable technology to translate sound onto the skin for a groundbreaking music experience called 'Music: Not Impossible.' By emphasizing collaboration, this institution provides a platform for creators, innovators, and problem-solvers, advocating for access over excess while inspiring positive change. Their impactful projects have been recognized in the industry, including features in Fast Company's World Changing Ideas. While the specific number of associated startups and investors is not disclosed, the impact of their work is evident through the successful projects that benefit individuals and communities. With expertise in sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, Entertainment, and Healthcare Tech, they continue to demonstrate humanity's potential to transform the impossible into the possible.

Not Impossible Labs's Website
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146) Talino Venture Labs

Talino Venture Labs - building California's entrepreneurial future

This global venture studio, located in Los Angeles, California, is dedicated to building sustainable innovation within the inclusive fintech sector. Its mission is to bridge the $5.2 trillion financial inclusion gap affecting over 1.7 billion people worldwide by developing repeatable, scalable, and profitable fintech companies that empower underserved populations. With a strong focus on Asia's emerging economies, they partner with industry leaders to foster tech-accelerated inclusion. The institution boasts a robust portfolio, having made 3,192 investments in fintech startups with the support of five investors. They have also raised $1.25 million through an equity crowdfunding campaign and secured $5 million in funding in November 2023 to enhance financial inclusion efforts in the Philippines and beyond. Founded by Winston Damarillo, this organization is pioneering the venture-building landscape by creating innovative fintech solutions aimed at generating a positive societal impact.

Talino Venture Labs's Website
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147) Cleantech to Market Program (Haas School of Business)

Cleantech to Market Program (Haas School of Business) - California's true entrepreneurial hub

The Cleantech to Market (C2M) Program at the Haas School of Business, University of California Berkeley, is a dynamic accelerator devoted to the commercialization of innovative cleantech solutions. This 15-week program fosters a partnership among graduate students, startups, and industry professionals with the goal of cultivating the next generation of cleantech leaders while addressing pressing environmental challenges. Specializing in various domains including low-carbon energy, green chemistry, food technologies, and water technologies, it focuses on both mitigation and adaptation strategies. The program offers approximately 1,000 hours of free technology, market, and business model assessments for each project, providing critical insights into market viability and customer needs. By facilitating interactions between talented graduate students and industry professionals, it fosters networking opportunities and encourages fresh ideas. The program helps startups refine their technologies and business plans, ultimately attracting potential investors through rigorous industry validation. C2M stands as an invaluable resource within the clean energy, edtech, environmental tech, food and beverage, and renewable energy sectors, bridging the gap between academia, industry, and entrepreneurship to drive cleantech innovation.

Cleantech to Market Program (Haas School of Business)'s Website
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148) Berkeley Haas

Berkeley Haas - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

Skydeck is a premier accelerator operated by the University of California, Berkeley, through a collaboration of the College of Engineering, Haas School of Business, and the Vice Chancellor for Research Office. This renowned program focuses on fostering entrepreneurial excellence through personalized and specialized engagement with UC Berkeley teams, serving as an interdisciplinary incubator that complements existing university resources. It offers an Accelerated Access program for undergraduate seniors or graduate students, allowing successful applicants conditional admission to the top-ranked full-time MBA program at the institution, with the possibility to defer enrollment for two to five years to gain professional experience. Startups benefit from personalized support and resources across diverse fields, including technology, engineering, and business. The accelerator's interdisciplinary approach and mentorship framework enhance the entrepreneurial ecosystem at UC Berkeley. Successful participants may also access scholarships and dual degree programs upon their return to business school, solidifying its commitment to bridging academia and entrepreneurship effectively.

Berkeley Haas's Website
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149) California NanoSystems Institute

California NanoSystems Institute - building California's entrepreneurial future

The accelerator, located at UCLAs Court of Sciences, is dedicated to fostering scientific and technological innovation. Its mission is to enhance the entrepreneurial culture at UCLA and the broader Los Angeles area, particularly in the fields of nanoscience and nanotechnology. It provides flexible co-working laboratory and office spaces to startups, facilitating access to high-quality facilities and cutting-edge equipment. This environment is tailored to increase capital efficiency and market opportunities for early-stage technology ventures. The institution encourages collaboration between its academic community and the industry, allowing rapid commercialization of discoveries in nanosystems. While specific metrics regarding the number of startups or investors are not disclosed, the accelerator is a valuable resource that supports aspiring entrepreneurs and researchers in various industries, including Edtech, General Tech, and Healthcare Tech. Jim Staples is among the notable founders linked to this initiative, underscoring its commitment to workforce development and research that supports California's innovation landscape.

California NanoSystems Institute's Website
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150) Fast Forward (Consulting Services)

Fast Forward (Consulting Services) - connecting start-up founders with success

This premier accelerator focuses on empowering tech nonprofits to maximize their social impact. By bridging the tech and nonprofit sectors, it provides critical funding, mentorship, and community support tailored to the unique challenges faced by tech nonprofit entrepreneurs. Each participating organization benefits from a $25,000 philanthropic grant to kickstart their initiatives. Over the course of three months, startups engage with diverse mentors and industry experts, enhancing their skills in product development, funding strategies, and pitching. The program has significantly impacted the sector, with its participants reaching 186 million lives and securing over $753 million in follow-on funding. Notably, 84% of these startups are led by founders with personal experiences related to their missions, ensuring an empathetic approach to problem-solving. It specializes in various domains including education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and poverty alleviation. Founded by Kevin Barenblat, Radomír Čech, and Shannon Farley, the institution cultivates a collaborative community that fosters ongoing support and connections among tech nonprofit founders and investors alike.

Fast Forward (Consulting Services)'s Website
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151) Imprint Lab

Imprint Lab - connecting start-up founders with success

Imprint Lab is a dynamic seed stage incubator that specializes in fostering creative start-ups, focusing on empowering creators and innovative ideas. Operating within the Accelerator Lab Network, which comprises 60 labs across 78 countries in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, it is dedicated to building bold brands and valuable market solutions. The accelerator draws on strategic consultancy expertise, facilitating collaboration between businesses and creative groups while adapting to various industries, including ecommerce, fintech, healthcare technology, and renewable energy. Led by founder Julia Huang, this organization emphasizes experimentation and collective intelligence to tackle sustainable development challenges. While specific details about associated and funded start-ups are not disclosed, the incubator provides invaluable opportunities for investor portfolio diversification and likely offers tailored support, mentorship, and access to extensive networks. Through its initiatives, it actively explores and organizes creative culture globally, driving forward the possibilities for impactful solutions in todays marketplace.

Imprint Lab's Website
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152) Same Page Capital

Same Page Capital - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

Same Page Capital (SPC) is a targeted accelerator designed to meet the needs of early-stage tech start-ups. It operates an investment arm known as Same Page.VC (SP.VC), which provides essential support in the form of investments, advisory services, and operational assistance. The organization has facilitated three successful exits and has participated in a significant total of 53,055 investments, including nine focused on diversity. Their expertise lies in aiding digital start-ups to thrive, leveraging knowledge in critical areas such as sales, business development, strategic partnerships, product marketing, investor communications, and go-to-market strategy. By aligning the objectives of investors with the strategic goals of customers and the innovative visions of entrepreneurs, they play a pivotal role in driving the commercial growth of start-ups. Founded by Norm Page, the institution emphasizes practical, hands-on expertise to enhance the growth potential of its portfolio companies. It primarily operates within the Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) and General Tech industries, making it a notable player in the early-stage investment landscape.

Same Page Capital's Website
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153) CV Labs Incubator

CV Labs Incubator - supporting founders in their growth journey

This hybrid blockchain incubation program is situated in Zug, the center of Crypto Valley, and offers an intensive 10-week curriculum for startups. It invests up to $150,000 in exchange for 10% equity, guiding entrepreneurs through crucial stages of development including pitch creation, product iteration, and strategic planning. Startups can expect to develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) by the end of the program and graduate with a comprehensive business plan and white paper. Participants gain access to a wealth of resources valued at over $200,000, which includes mentorship from leading experts and networking opportunities within the blockchain and fintech sectors. The incubator actively seeks out groundbreaking blockchain projects led by ambitious founders determined to disrupt conventional systems. Established by notable figures Mathias Ruch, Olaf Hannemann, and Ralf Glabischnig, the ecosystem cultivates an environment ripe for innovation and collaboration, ensuring that entrepreneurs are equipped to navigate the challenges of securing investment and scaling their startups effectively.

CV Labs Incubator's Website
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154) Institute for the Global Entrepreneur

Institute for the Global Entrepreneur - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

The Institute for the Global Entrepreneur, founded by Jyoti Mishra and Roger Revelle, offers the Global Entrepreneur Accelerator (GEA) program, specifically designed for international startups looking to enter the U.S. market. This intensive program, lasting 3 to 12 months, includes personalized mentoring to refine business plans for the U.S. business environment. Focused on technology and entrepreneurship, the program has assisted 150 international teams, resulting in 175 successfully launched startups that have collectively raised $95 million. More than 300 teams have taken part in the program, benefiting from exposure to U.S. and global markets, interaction with industry leaders and venture firms, as well as access to expert business coaches and Institute-affiliated faculty. Apart from mentorship, the program encourages network building within the San Diego Ecosystem, offers customized coaching, and delivers valuable market insights. By providing startups with the necessary resources and guidance, the GEA program prepares them to thrive in the U.S. entrepreneurial landscape, particularly in sectors such as Edtech and General Tech.

Institute for the Global Entrepreneur's Website
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155) University of California - San Diego - Sullivan Center for Entrepreneurship

University of California - San Diego - Sullivan Center for Entrepreneurship - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

The Sullivan Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at the University of California, San Diego, is dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs at various stages of their business ventures. It features the Global Entrepreneur Accelerator (GEA), an intensive program lasting from 3 to 12 months, designed to connect entrepreneurial teams with industry leaders and venture firms across both U.S. and global markets. Each team is paired with a domain-expert business coach and benefits from access to Institute-affiliated faculty. The impact of the center is substantial, with over 500 teams participating and 200 startups launched, including a notable startup that developed a noninvasive glucose test, securing $4 million in seed funding. The program has facilitated over $120 million in funding for various entrepreneurial endeavors, showcasing its success in fostering innovation. Active collaboration with organizations like NSF I-Corps and JETRO LA promotes sustainability and supports underrepresented entrepreneurs, particularly in the biotech and life sciences sectors. Founded by Jyoti Mishra and Roger Revelle, the institution operates across multiple industries including biotech, edtech, healthcare technology, and renewable energy, creating a dynamic environment for nurturing startup growth.

University of California - San Diego - Sullivan Center for Entrepreneurship's Website
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156) The Basement (La Jolla)

The Basement (La Jolla) - supporting founders in their growth journey

Founded in 2015, this accelerator and incubator is located at UC San Diego in La Jolla, California. It is dedicated to fostering early-stage startups, entrepreneurs, and social innovators, providing them with the resources and support necessary to successfully launch their businesses and develop global solutions. The program encourages growth and connectivity among startups across various fields, including technology, social impact, education technology, fintech, healthcare tech, and SaaS. To date, the institution has been associated with six startups and has funded four of those ventures. Notable companies that have emerged from this program include Algeon Materials, LearnSesh, and Limber, while Bifrost Wealth and Slithr have also been part of the accelerator, albeit exiting the market. The leadership team includes founders Jyoti Mishra and Roger Revelle, who guide the mission of enhancing entrepreneurial excellence within the academic environment. While specific program duration and investment numbers are not disclosed, this organization continues to serve as a pivotal resource for innovative and impactful startup development.

The Basement (La Jolla)'s Website
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157) Disruptive Labs

Disruptive Labs - building California's entrepreneurial future

A prominent Startup Studio located in Santa Monica, California, this organization was founded by Josh Swan and Marco Franzoni in August 2018. Their mission is to empower exceptional founders by assisting them in building, launching, and scaling technology companies. The studio partners with ambitious teams, focusing on transforming complex challenges into innovative solutions across various technology sectors, including General Tech, Mobile Apps, and SaaS (Software as a Service). It has achieved significant metrics, having made 47,677 investments and 7 diversity investments, along with 1 successful exit. They provide comprehensive support to founders, offering infrastructure setup, effective team scaling, and accelerated product and business development. This ensures that startups are equipped for success without unexpected hurdles. By fostering a flexible and world-class environment, the institution stands out as a vital resource for innovators looking to realize their potential in the tech landscape.

Disruptive Labs's Website
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158) SuperLayer

SuperLayer - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

A leading venture studio dedicated to the development of innovative Web3 projects, it emphasizes the intersection of consumer experiences, gaming, and monetization. Led by experienced founders Kevin Chou and Mahesh Vellanki, the organization operates with a unique studio model that facilitates in-house development from concept to scale. Co-founders receive pre-seed funding along with vital domain expertise and access to strategic partnerships to accelerate their projects' success. The focus is on creating tokenized, multi-chain consumer products powered by the RLY Protocol, aiming to redefine consumer interactions through cutting-edge technologies. The venture studio boasts a robust network of influential investors, including notable names like Aaron Schwartz, Alex Bard, Chris Dixon, and Marc Andreessen. By blending expertise, funding, and partnerships, it empowers founders to pave the way for the future of the internet and Web3, particularly in the realms of entertainment and gaming.

SuperLayer's Website
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159) Growth Factory (Rocklin)

Growth Factory (Rocklin) - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

This startup accelerator, located in Rocklin, California, is a member of the Global Accelerator Network (GAN). Its mission is to invest in entrepreneurs by providing capital, tools, mentorship, and opportunities to facilitate company scaling. The institution specializes in various domains, including Agriculture, Artificial Intelligence, B2B/Enterprise, Energy, Finance, Health/Medical, Social Enterprise, Software, Transportation, AgriTech, Cleantech, FinTech, Medical Equipment, Mobility, and SaaS. The focus is on guiding founders from the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage to achieving product-market fit, securing venture backing, and beyond. Programs emphasize validating product-market fit, crafting go-to-market strategies, executing pilot projects, and developing fundraising strategies, all supported by expert mentorship. It invests up to $25,000 per team, providing a supportive community and access to valuable resources for founders aiming for growth and success.

Growth Factory (Rocklin)'s Website
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160) SF Housing Accelerator

SF Housing Accelerator - building California's entrepreneurial future

The San Francisco Housing Accelerator Fund is a nonprofit organization that operates as an innovative public-private partnership with local foundations and private institutions. Its mission is to accelerate the production and preservation of affordable housing for economically disadvantaged households, individuals, and communities. This initiative achieves its goals by lending to, investing in, and directly acquiring real estate assets. To date, it has created or preserved 2,574 affordable homes, housing 4,423 residents, with a total investment of $448 million. The organization specializes in affordable housing projects that may not be viable with traditional financing, effectively bridging the gap between early-stage private financing and permanent public sector funding sources at multiple levels. The flexible financing model combines capital from various public, private, and philanthropic sources into a single independent capital pool, enhancing the efficiency of affordable housing finance. Operating across industries such as fintech, personal finance, real estate tech, and renewable energy, the institution's impact in the housing sector has been significant and ongoing.

SF Housing Accelerator's Website
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161) UCLA Technology Development

UCLA Technology Development - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

The UCLA Technology Development Group (TDG) serves as a pivotal gateway for innovation, research, and entrepreneurship at the University of California, Los Angeles. Its mission focuses on fostering the commercialization of technologies developed by faculty, researchers, and students, effectively bridging the gap between academia and industry. They have facilitated the creation of 259 companies in California, leveraging licensed technologies from the institution across various domains, including biopharmaceuticals, healthcare tech, and software solutions. Noteworthy founders associated with the organization include Edward Augustus Dickson and Ernest Carroll Moore, who have significantly contributed to its mission. The accelerator engages with venture capitalists, private equity firms, and industry experts to provide guidance and secure funding for emerging start-ups. Additionally, there is an emphasis on a wide array of technology sectors such as therapeutics, drug delivery, medical imaging, and advanced materials technologies. Start-ups linked with TDG benefit from access to expertise, mentorship, and resources, including strategic insights from distinguished faculty and industry executives on intellectual property protection and commercialization strategies. Overall, it plays a crucial role in advancing innovation and supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem at UCLA.

UCLA Technology Development's Website
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162) University of California-Los Angeles - Price Center for Entrepreneurial Studies

University of California-Los Angeles - Price Center for Entrepreneurial Studies - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

The Harold & Pauline Price Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at UCLA Anderson School of Management serves as a pivotal hub for fostering innovation and nurturing entrepreneurial leaders. Its mission emphasizes creating positive change in California and globally through the advancement of entrepreneurship. They provide extensive resources for academic and professional development, including research initiatives, experiential learning, and non-degree certificate programs. The Venture Accelerator is a transformative, cohort-based program tailored for early-stage startups, featuring a 10,000-square-foot incubator equipped with state-of-the-art co-working spaces and conference facilities. Startups have access to research librarians and receive support for innovation market readiness. The organization specializes in diverse domains, with particular emphasis on Edtech and Healthcare Tech. Networking opportunities with successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals facilitate connections within the vibrant Southern California startup community. Participation in programs such as Blackstone LaunchPad and the Social Enterprise Academy further enhances the entrepreneurial experience. Foundational figures such as Edward Augustus Dickson and Ernest Carroll Moore have been instrumental in shaping its vision and impact within the ecosystem.

University of California-Los Angeles - Price Center for Entrepreneurial Studies's Website
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163) UCLA CNSI Incubator

UCLA CNSI Incubator - connecting start-up founders with success

The Magnify Incubator at the California NanoSystems Institute (CNSI), located within the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), focuses on nurturing early-stage technology startups that address significant scientific challenges. This facility features flexible co-working laboratory and office spaces designed to enhance access to state-of-the-art facilities while optimizing capital efficiency and market opportunities. Its mission extends beyond the university, aiming to cultivate a strong entrepreneurial culture throughout the broader Los Angeles region. Specializations include nanoscience, nanotechnology, and related fields, with notable support for startups working on scientific innovations that resolve unmet needs. Among its accomplishments, it has helped advance several startups, including a hair loss biotech company backed by GV, which is set to enter a Phase II trial in mid-2024, along with ventures making strides in antibody production and muscle fibrosis research. The incubator offers access to high-end scientific equipment and fosters networking opportunities, mentorship, and collaboration with other startups. This ecosystem benefits from the proximity to UCLA's academic community. Founded by Edward Augustus Dickson and Ernest Carroll Moore, it plays a critical role in accelerating the path to success for aspiring entrepreneurs in biotech and edtech.

UCLA CNSI Incubator's Website
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164) UCI Beall Applied Innovation

UCI Beall Applied Innovation - supporting California's best founders

This prominent accelerator merges the research prowess of the University of California, Irvine with industry needs, having been established in 1965. It operates a 17,000 square foot wet lab incubator within the UCI Research Park, dedicated to accelerating the development of products, knowledge, and companies that serve societal interests. The institution nurtures aspiring entrepreneurs through comprehensive educational and mentorship programs while fostering collaborations between academia and industry. Its focus spans a diverse range of domains, including technology, life sciences, engineering, and healthcare tech. While the specific number of start-ups supported is not disclosed, the organization connects innovators with university inventions and industry resources, enhancing the startup ecosystem in Orange County. Among its key offerings are The Cove @ UCI, a leading facility that brings together entrepreneurs, innovators, and investors, as well as programs designed to cultivate new leaders in technology. Daniel G. Aldrich, a notable founder, has been instrumental in its mission to translate research into market-ready products, creating a significant impact on both emerging companies and the larger community.

UCI Beall Applied Innovation's Website
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165) Zahn Innovation Platform Launchpad

Zahn Innovation Platform Launchpad - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

The Zahn Innovation Platform Launchpad at San Diego State University serves as a dynamic incubator supporting students, staff, faculty, and researchers in turning their innovative ideas into successful startups. Since its inception, 39 teams have successfully launched, and over 400 teams comprising more than 850 students have benefitted from the program, raising upwards of $39.15 million in funding. Participants engage in a comprehensive entrepreneurial journey that includes validating their solutions and gaining real-world traction while being surrounded by experienced advisors and domain experts. The program accepts applications each semester, with the next cycle scheduled from March 15 to May 30, 2024. Attendees enjoy extensive benefits, such as up to $10,000 in non-equity funding, access to prototyping resources, and the opportunity for paid internships. The workspace, located in EISC 103, is open 24/7 and encourages collaboration. It spans various fields, including EdTech, Environmental Tech, and Renewable Energy, with legal guidance from Mintz Levin and networking opportunities with local entrepreneurs. The initiative was also honored with the 2023 Excellence in Entrepreneurship Education Award by USASBE, reflecting its commitment to fostering innovation in the entrepreneurial community at SDSU. Vesta C. Muehleisen is among the key founders driving this initiative.

Zahn Innovation Platform Launchpad's Website
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166) University of California-Davis Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

University of California-Davis Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship - California's true entrepreneurial hub

The organization is dedicated to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development among UC Davis students, faculty, and staff. The accelerator integrates entrepreneurial thinking across the university, significantly contributing to economic growth. It specializes in various domains, including health and life sciences, energy and sustainability, food and agriculture, technology and engineering, and social impact and community development. Support is provided to numerous start-ups, and collaborations take place with other institutes within the university, such as the Blum Center for Developing Economies and the Innovation Institute for Food and Health. A notable feature of the accelerator is the DENvision Network Visualization Tool, which facilitates the visualization of connections and resources within the entrepreneurship ecosystem. Additionally, the initiative has received $2.2 million in state funding to bolster its entrepreneurship infrastructure, further enhancing its capacity to translate research into economic opportunities. By empowering innovators and entrepreneurs, the institution plays an essential role in driving transformative change within the academic community and beyond.

University of California-Davis Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship's Website
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167) Engineering Translational Technology Center

Engineering Translational Technology Center - supporting California's best founders

The Engineering Translational Technology Center is a prominent incubator based in Davis, California, dedicated to fostering innovation in key sectors, including information technology, biotechnology, and clean technology. It plays a crucial role in supporting the UC Davis College of Engineering's mission to create a sustainable world through socially responsible engineering. The organization has invested in 10 startups and currently manages a portfolio of 4 companies, achieving 5 successful exits. A significant component of its funding strategy is the Cohen Translational Engineering Fund, which provides seed funding of up to $200,000 to support early-stage innovations, with grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 available for projects lasting up to nine months. Additionally, the Pava Center for Entrepreneurship enhances this ecosystem by offering mentorship, programming, and funding support for student entrepreneurs. It is also involved in STEM outreach and collaborates with industry partners to translate knowledge into impactful innovations. By combining financial support, strategic mentorship, and educational initiatives, this institution drives advancements across diverse fields, including biotech, clean energy, healthcare technology, and environmental tech.

Engineering Translational Technology Center's Website
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168) L.A. Libations

L.A. Libations - connecting start-up founders with success

L.A. Libations is a next-generation beverage incubator based in El Segundo, California, dedicated to identifying and nurturing innovative beverage brands that cater to health-conscious consumers. The organization focuses on emerging categories such as plant-based, functional drinks, and natural energy beverages, driven by a commitment to health, wellness, and social responsibility. Each year, they engage with over 200 entrepreneurs globally to discover standout brands, collaborating with both emerging startups and established companies to enhance their market presence. As a key innovation partner for The Molson Coors Beverage Company, the institution is recognized in the industry for its expertise in brand building and commercial strategy. Key figures behind this initiative include founders Danny Stepper and Dino Sarti, who emphasize fostering long-term success for beverage startups through the SoCal Incubation Program (SIP). This program provides essential support, resources, and industry insights, reinforcing their mission to bring the most innovative and health-oriented beverages to market.

L.A. Libations's Website
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169) Allotrope Partners

Allotrope Partners - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

This investment firm focuses on accelerating the transition to a sustainable energy future by identifying, catalyzing, and advancing clean energy initiatives and investments. It specializes in early-stage companies in the carbon and clean energy sectors. A key initiative is the Local Utility Project Accelerator (LUPA), designed to support electric cooperatives (ECs) in the Philippines. This program enables them to invest in, own, and benefit from renewable energy projects. LUPA addresses barriers such as project development resources and perceived risks, while also connecting ECs with renewable energy developers and capital providers. The blended finance model employed aggregates development and financing resources, helping ECs meet Renewable Portfolio Standard targets, attract competitive financing, and maximize cost savings to deliver low-cost clean electricity. This initiative aims to unlock 9,000 MW of new renewable energy capacity to support the Philippines' goal of achieving 35% renewable energy by 2030, contributing to climate resilience and development outcomes. Marc Stuart is a notable founder associated with the organization, underscoring its commitment to fostering impactful clean energy solutions.

Allotrope Partners's Website
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170) KidsX Accelerator

KidsX Accelerator - connecting start-up founders with success

The institution is a premier program dedicated to supporting early-stage digital health companies focused on pediatric care. Running from May to August 2024, the accelerator spans 10 weeks, providing mentorship and resources aimed at validating products and business models in the pediatric market. Key areas of innovation include AI automation for workforce optimization, care journey navigation tools, health literacy initiatives, hospital-at-home technologies, and pediatric mental and behavioral health applications. Collaborating with leading children's hospitals and healthcare stakeholders, the program facilitates mentorship, networking, and business development opportunities, enabling entrepreneurs to engage with industry leaders, payors, and potential investors. The format includes both asynchronous content and live virtual programming, such as one-on-one meetings, roundtable discussions, and pilot planning sessions. The network ensures that startups receive valuable feedback and rapid validation of their solutions in the pediatric space. By fostering collaboration among hospitals, providers, and corporate partners globally, this accelerator plays a critical role in driving innovation and enhancing the safety and efficiency of pediatric healthcare.

KidsX Accelerator's Website
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171) The Workers Lab

The Workers Lab - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

The Workers Lab is an accelerator dedicated to improving conditions for low-wage workers, envisioning a society where all individuals are safe, healthy, secure, and free. It serves as a collaborative platform for worker advocates, uniting various entities including entrepreneurs, community organizers, technologists, economic justice organizations, and businesses to create scalable solutions. The organization emphasizes innovation through strategic investments and special projects, such as research on emergency cash delivery and the incubation of Canary, a social enterprise that provides emergency cash to employees. They also partner with organizations like Steady to develop the 'Income Passport' to enhance gig workers' access to safety net benefits. Utilizing an adapted version of Google's Design Sprint methodology, the institution ensures worker involvement in problem-solving processes. Furthermore, the Gig Worker Learning Project, launched in collaboration with the Aspen Institute, collects insights directly from gig workers, analyzing over 75 studies to inform best practices. Founded by Carmen Rojas and David Rolf, it bridges the gap between traditional labor movements and technology, actively working to rebuild the American middle class through innovation.

The Workers Lab's Website
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172) NEC X

NEC X - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in California

NEC X is a strategic innovation hub supported by NEC Corporation to accelerate the development of innovative products and services. The accelerator program rapidly incubates and develops new businesses with cutting-edge technologies to drive innovation forward. They collaborate with visionary entrepreneurs and early-stage start-ups, running several cohorts each year with 4-8 teams per cohort. The program duration lasts 8-12 months, during which start-ups receive comprehensive support, resources, and expertise from NEC X. NEC X has established strategic partnerships with accelerators like Entrepreneurs Roundtable Accelerator (ERA) and Alchemist Accelerator. Specializing in various domains, including emerging technologies, AI, and networking, NEC X draws expertise from seven cutting-edge laboratories worldwide. Through the Venture Studio Program, start-ups can transform visionary ideas into transformative businesses and gain access to NEC's award-winning technologies. NEC X fosters an innovation culture of curiosity, collaboration, and creativity, providing support from concept development to market implementation. Their industries of focus include Artificial Intelligence and General Tech.

NEC X's Website
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173) KidsX

KidsX - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

The KidsX Accelerator is a premier program dedicated to supporting early-stage digital health companies that focus on improving pediatric care. Operating from May to August 2024, the accelerator facilitates product and business model validation specifically within the pediatric market. It encourages startups to innovate in several key areas, including AI Automation for healthcare operations, Care Journey Navigation to enhance patient experiences, Health Literacy to address social determinants of health, technologies for Hospital at Home, and services in Pediatric Mental & Behavioral Health. By partnering with leading children's hospitals, providers, payors, investors, and entrepreneurs, the organization seeks to tackle significant challenges in pediatric care. Spanning over 10 weeks, the program features asynchronous materials and a mix of live virtual engagements, such as 1:1 meetings, roundtables, and pilot planning sessions. This initiative aims to connect startups with decision-makers in the pediatric sector, allowing for the testing and validation of solutions in real-world settings. Through this structured approach, the accelerator strives to facilitate the successful entry of innovative digital health solutions into the pediatric healthcare landscape.

KidsX's Website
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174) VIVE X

VIVE X - building California's entrepreneurial future

The prominent accelerator program, founded by HTC Vive, is dedicated to cultivating the global XR (Extended Reality) ecosystem by supporting innovative startups. It focuses on investing in early-stage companies across Seed, Series A, and Series B funding stages. Specializing in a range of advanced technologies, the initiative includes Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and 5G. Over a duration of 16 weeks, substantial support is provided beyond equity investment, including strategic guidance, business development, engineering assistance, and marketing strategies. The program is designed to leverage HTC VIVE's extensive operational capabilities to accelerate traction for participating companies. Key industries addressed encompass Consumer Electronics, Entertainment, and Healthcare Tech. Under the leadership of founder Thomas Dabarno, this accelerator plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and collaboration within the XR space, empowering startups to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

VIVE X's Website
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175) University of Southern California - Lloyd Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies

University of Southern California - Lloyd Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

The Lloyd Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies is the oldest entrepreneurship program in the United States and the largest hub for entrepreneurship on the USC campus. It serves as a vital resource for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering a variety of programs including the Blackstone LaunchPad, an initiative that assists students in launching ventures, and the New Venture Seed Competition, an annual contest for funding. Other notable endeavors include the Athena Initiative for empowering women entrepreneurs and the Marshall Greif Incubator for early-stage startups. The center also features the Catalyst Microgrant Program and the Marshall Venture Fund, a student-run venture capital fund. Alumni have launched hundreds of successful companies, with notable recognitions including Salesforce, Box, and FedEx Office. It offers courses aimed at fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, covering the entire entrepreneurial process from opportunity discovery to business growth. The institution welcomes anyone interested in entrepreneurship, providing access to a robust network of investors and industry leaders. Key figures associated with the initiation include Jeffrey Miller, Noam Wasserman, and Robert Maclay Widney.

University of Southern California - Lloyd Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies's Website
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176) USC Incubator

USC Incubator - California's true entrepreneurial hub

The organization, part of the Office of Research and Innovation at the University of Southern California, is dedicated to nurturing ethical and innovative research, particularly in the biomedical sector. It aims to bridge the gap between biomedical innovation and commercially viable medical products, significantly contributing to societal well-being. The incubator program accelerates the development of ventures led by USC students, alumni, and faculty, providing mentorship, experiential education, and community support. It assists founders from feasibility analysis to creating tested business models and preparing for investment, with additional access to legal and financial resources. Eligibility is open to individuals connected with USC, fostering a diverse skill set across technology, design, business, and marketing. Notable founders of the program include Jeffrey Miller, Noam Wasserman, and Robert Maclay Widney. The incubator has supported numerous startups, some of which have won competitions like the New Seed Venture Competition and achieved funding through various channels, including crowdfunding and NSF grants. The focus remains on practical guidance and personalized mentorship, ensuring the success of ventures in fields such as Edtech and beyond.

USC Incubator's Website
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177) Free Ventures

Free Ventures - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

This prestigious startup accelerator is based at the University of California, Berkeley, and has been operating since 2013. The program hosts semester-long batches during the fall and spring academic semesters, connecting student founders with experienced mentors and offering personalized resources to facilitate startup growth. With a robust network, the institution has supported 90 alumni companies that collectively raised over $170 million in follow-on capital across 18 batches. It emphasizes mentorship, weekly interactions with industry experts, and workshops designed to enhance founders' knowledge and skills. Participants benefit from equity-free funding for startup-related expenses, alongside connections to leading investors, which includes resources from partners such as SVB and Cooley for legal and banking needs. Founders like Cameron Baradar and Jeremy Fiance have played a crucial role in the program's success, which spans diverse industries such as fintech and personal finance. Feedback from alumni highlights exceptional support, critical thinking assistance during mentor sessions, and the overall value of the program in preparing them for real-world challenges. The organization fosters a collaborative university ecosystem, empowering students to tackle meaningful challenges while building scalable business models.

Free Ventures's Website
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178) Founders Space

Founders Space - supporting California's best founders

This prominent global startup accelerator and innovation hub is recognized for its exceptional support to entrepreneurs across various industries, including ecommerce, fintech, general tech, healthcare tech, and mobile apps. With a robust network of over 50 partners spanning 22 countries, the organization has earned accolades as the #1 incubator for international startups, as ranked by Forbes and Entrepreneur Magazines. Helmed by key figures Naomi Kokubo and Steven Hoffman, it fosters a collaborative environment for startups. The accelerator effectively connects entrepreneurs with valuable funding opportunities and insights, providing participants access to a vast global network. They receive guidance on business development, product-market fit, and scaling, along with invitations to networking events and workshops. Emphasizing innovation and collaboration, it establishes itself as a critical resource for startups seeking to thrive in the competitive global market.

Founders Space's Website
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179) FoundersBoost

FoundersBoost - California's true entrepreneurial hub

FoundersBoost is a global pre-accelerator program that prepares pre-seed and seed stage startups for accelerators, investment, and revenue. With operations in 22 locations worldwide, it focuses on early-stage startups and has successfully propelled over 500 businesses through its 6-week, mentor-led, community-driven initiatives. Notably, more than 80% of the startups are founded by underrepresented entrepreneurs, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity. The program offers Acceleration, Investment, and/or Revenue (AIR) opportunities without taking equity or charging fees, fostering a supportive environment where startups can thrive. To date, alumni have successfully raised over $230 million, further establishing its effectiveness in connecting startups with partners, investors, and mentors. The organization emphasizes a tactical curriculum that equips founders with essential skills for customer engagement, funding, and hiring. Led by notable figures such as Blake Caldwell, Gene Murphy, Jim Gibbs, Kit Mueller, and Simone Luciano Antonio Demelas, it brings expertise to support emerging entrepreneurs across various sectors, including fintech and general technology.

FoundersBoost's Website
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180) UCSF Rosenman Institute

UCSF Rosenman Institute - connecting start-up founders with success

This prominent healthtech startup accelerator is dedicated to fostering innovation in healthcare through a collaborative ecosystem of entrepreneurs, industry experts, mentors, and investors. Its mission is to empower healthtech entrepreneurs to develop solutions that address unmet clinical needs and improve patient care. The organization provides extensive support, including mentorship from seasoned professionals, connections to industry partners and investors, and insider knowledge on navigating the healthtech landscape. Since its inception in 2014, it has aided transformative health technology companies from concept to commercialization across various domains, including medical devices, digital health, diagnostics, and therapeutics. A key initiative, the ADAPT program, offers grants to accelerate technology development, successfully supporting companies like Emme in women's digital health. Additionally, significant breakthroughs have been facilitated, exemplified by assisting Efemoral Medical in achieving FDA breakthrough device status for its vascular scaffold system. While specific metrics regarding the number of startups and investors are not disclosed, the institution remains an essential player in enhancing health technology and improving lives through innovative approaches.

UCSF Rosenman Institute's Website
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181) PeopleTech Partners

PeopleTech Partners - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

PeopleTech Partners is a San Francisco-based accelerator network founded by Cara Brennan Allamano. The accelerator focuses on investing time and resources in people technology, particularly in areas such as talent acquisition, benefits, compensation, people analytics, artificial intelligence, and people management. The program, which lasts for 12 weeks, targets early-stage ventures and seed investments, offering accelerator, syndicate, and venture capital funding. While the exact number of associated start-ups and investors is unspecified, the network comprises business leaders dedicated to advancing people technology. It actively supports and invests in startups working on AI, analytics, and HR tech, driving innovation in employee experience within world-class companies. The leadership team consists of passionate professionals committed to the growth of people technology. As an early-stage advisory and investment group, PeopleTech Partners leverages the expertise of People Leaders to accelerate the growth of portfolio companies, making it a key player in the evolving landscape of people tech.

PeopleTech Partners's Website
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182) Ad Astra Ventures

Ad Astra Ventures - connecting start-up founders with success

This accelerator firm is based in Solana Beach, California, with a dedicated focus on empowering women-led innovations. Its mission is to activate capital, expertise, and resources to prepare visionary female founders to successfully lead and grow their businesses. The organization offers a 12-week intensive program designed for high-growth startups across various domains, including women's health, software-as-a-service (SaaS), consumer products, medical technology, and sustainability. Founded by Allison Long, Silvia Mah, and Vidya Dinamani, it addresses implicit gender biases in the entrepreneurial landscape, encouraging female entrepreneurs to think creatively and lead authentically. The firm delivers a high-energy, virtual experience, featuring bootcamps tailored for both founders and investors, aiming to shatter barriers for women in business and equip them with the necessary tools for success.

Ad Astra Ventures's Website
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183) ChicostArt

ChicostArt - California's true entrepreneurial hub

ChicoSTART is an accelerator program located in Downtown Chico, California, dedicated to supporting Northern California's entrepreneurial and tech ecosystem. As part of the Accelerate CA Innovation Hub, it fosters an inclusive innovation environment aimed at advancing economic and societal benefits in the region. The program provides essential resources such as training, coaching, and mentorship, focusing on helping entrepreneurs transition from survival to thriving within their ventures. It addresses critical challenges through initiatives like the BRIC Resilience and Recovery Project, aimed at enhancing resilience and innovation in the Butte County region, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the aftermath of the Camp Fire. Thirty entrepreneurs are selected for an intensive five-month support experience, targeting key sectors such as advanced agriculture and biotechnology. The organization also aims to create over 20 new jobs during its project lifecycle and 75 new high-paying jobs within two years after completion. By developing a replicable model for entrepreneur and economic development, it seeks to enhance regional economic diversity and support struggling opportunity zones, thereby solidifying its role as a catalyst for growth in California's Far North region.

ChicostArt's Website
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184) Chicostart

Chicostart - connecting start-up founders with success

Located in Downtown Chico, California, this leading startup accelerator focuses on enriching Northern California's entrepreneurial and tech ecosystem. They operate the Butte Regional Innovation Cluster Resilience and Recovery (BRIC-RR) project, which concentrates on advanced agriculture, biotechnology, and biomaterials. The organization supports an intensive five-month innovation, acceleration, and commercialization program tailored for 30 selected entrepreneurs, innovators, and small businesses. This initiative aims to create over 20 new jobs during the program and an estimated 75 high-paying jobs two years after completion. By collaborating with more than 25 industry leaders, local jurisdictions, universities, entrepreneurs, and innovators, the accelerator fosters a thriving ecosystem. Their mission is to develop a replicable and sustainable entrepreneur and economic development model, enhancing regional economic diversification and resilience against disasters and pandemics. Additionally, it has partnered with FourthWave, a non-profit accelerator aimed at supporting women-led businesses. As part of its broader goal, they are dedicated to growing an inclusive innovation ecosystem, providing essential training, mentorship, and access to capital for startups.

Chicostart's Website
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185) Manos Accelerator

Manos Accelerator - a prominent start-up growth supporter in California

This mentorship-driven program is dedicated to supporting Latino-led startups. Its mission is to impact over 1 million entrepreneurs worldwide by providing essential resources and guidance. The organization features a 3-month virtual mentorship program designed to accelerate early-stage startups through video conferencing. This is complemented by a one-week intensive Silicon Valley Scale-Up Program aimed at scale-up companies. Focused on high-tech industries, it specifically supports both U.S. and Latin American startups in sectors such as Edtech, Entertainment, Healthcare Tech, and Mobile Applications. Participants receive hands-on expertise in areas including product development, user experience, customer acquisition, and pitch preparation, along with introductions to potential investors. Founded by Edward Avila and Sylvia Flores, the institution creates a supportive environment that equips Latino entrepreneurs with the necessary tools to thrive in the competitive startup ecosystem.

Manos Accelerator's Website
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186) StartLabs (San Francisco)

StartLabs (San Francisco) - connecting start-up founders with success

This US-based early-stage fund, founded in 2013, specializes in startups from Southeast Europe. Operating from San Francisco, it invests up to $50,000 in promising startups in exchange for a 10-15% equity stake. The accelerator provides comprehensive support, including mentorship, office space, business services, and technical infrastructure. The program is divided into two key phases: initially, startups engage in an intensive acceleration process in Belgrade, where they focus on refining their approach and product development. The most promising startups then transition to the program in San Francisco, allowing them to connect with a vast network of mentors, investors, and experts to help secure subsequent funding. Emphasizing hands-on guidance in various critical areas such as marketing, technology, and sales, it assists startups with customer development and scaling strategies. Additionally, participating startups benefit from a shared office environment and access to skilled professionals, including engineers and product managers. This ecosystem fosters innovation and growth, positioning startups from Southeast Europe for successful market entry and expansion in a competitive landscape.

StartLabs (San Francisco)'s Website
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187) StartLabs

StartLabs - accelerating exceptional start-ups in California

This US-based early-stage fund invests in startups from Southeast Europe. Founded by Voja Lalic and Nebojsa Lazic, two computer engineers with extensive experience, the accelerator brings a wealth of knowledge from their successful ventures in the U.S. They provide seed investments of up to $50,000 in exchange for 10% to 15% equity in the companies supported. The program focuses primarily on B2B startups, while also accepting ventures in web development, gaming, and hardware. With each generation limited to six startups, the organization ensures a high-quality and exclusive environment for its participants. In addition to funding, it offers crucial mentorship, technical infrastructure, business services, and access to valuable networking opportunities. By bridging the gap between Silicon Valley and Southeast Europe, this institution fosters innovation and growth in the region's tech ecosystem, helping to propel the next generation of entrepreneurs towards success.

StartLabs's Website
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188) AI Grant

AI Grant - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

Established in 2017 by Nat Friedman and Daniel Gross, this non-profit distributed AI research lab specializes in funding innovative open source artificial intelligence projects. They provide grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, which can be utilized for compute resources or cash, with no strings attached. This unique funding model empowers brilliant minds to contribute to the cutting edge of AI research without restrictions. Recent recipients of these grants include abetlen, recognized for their development of llama-cpp-python; philpax, acknowledged for contributions to the GGUF file format; and TySam, supported for their work on 10-second models. While the primary focus is on artificial intelligence, the organization also encompasses projects related to fintech, reinforcing its commitment to advancing technology across significant domains. This initiative stands out in the landscape of technology funding, enabling developers and researchers to push the boundaries of open source AI innovation.

AI Grant's Website
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