Grow your start-up with Colorado's best accelerators & incubators

The Pacific Northwest's oldest and most-selective startup accelerator is thriving in its second decade within a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem that surrounds two of the largest technology companies in the world. The latest cohort, Class of 2023, comprises 24 early-stage startup companies, marking the largest in the program's history. Notable alumni include category leaders such as Remitly, Outreach, Leanplum, and Zipline, which together have raised nearly $1.2 billion in investment capital and employ over a thousand people in the region and beyond. The organization provides startups with access to $120,000 in funding for 6% equity, office space, and a supportive community. Additionally, it connects early-stage ventures with experienced mentors crucial for their growth and success. Ideal for companies in sectors like fintech and personal finance, the typical program duration is 13 weeks, focusing on nurturing startups and enhancing their chances of success in a highly competitive landscape. Founded by visionaries including Brad Feld and David Cohen, this accelerator plays an essential role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

Techstars Seattle Accelerator's Website

Techstars Anywhere Remote Accelerator is a pioneering program launched in 2017 to support startups innovating across various industries. Geared towards founders who are unable to relocate, the accelerator operates on a remote-first model, extending the benefits of a top-tier program to companies in North American timezones. Over a duration of 13 weeks, participants convene in person three times in different cities throughout the Americas. The program, which has two cohorts annually during winter and summer, caters to companies in Fintech, General Tech, and other sectors, fostering diversity and innovation without domain restrictions. Noteworthy mentors involved with Techstars Anywhere include Allyson Downey, David Mandell, Emily Best, Lolita Taub, and Moisey Uretsky. Founders such as Brad Feld, Chisa Egbelu, Daniel Mason, David Brown, David Cohen, and Jared Polis have benefited from the accelerator. With a standard deal offering $120K for 6% equity, the accelerator emphasizes mentorship, networking, and a culmination in Demo Day presentations to potential investors.

Techstars Anywhere Accelerator's Website

This prominent 15-week program, based in Denver, Colorado, is designed to tackle challenges in the modern labor market through innovative technologies. Scheduled to commence on September 5, 2024, it emphasizes workforce development by fostering solutions that meet the evolving needs of the labor market. Applications for the 2024 cohort open on March 6, 2024, with a final deadline of June 10, 2024. The program adopts a hybrid format, providing selected startups with seed funding and invaluable mentorship from a network of national leaders dedicated to guiding entrepreneurs. Key partners supporting the initiative include Strada Education Network, ZOMALAB, and Colorado Thrives. Founded by notable figures such as Brad Feld and David Cohen, the organization is committed to nurturing startups in the edtech and fintech sectors, making a significant impact by contributing to a more effective and efficient workforce system. The robust ecosystem of resources available to participants underscores its mission to innovate within the workforce development space.

Techstars Workforce Development Accelerator's Website

The organization is a virtual program designed to foster the next generation of space technologies, particularly in the commercial space sector. It operates in partnership with significant entities such as the United States Space Force, NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and international defense ministries, including those of the Netherlands and Norway. The program focuses on a wide range of industries extending beyond aerospace, including automotive, agriculture, and fintech, encouraging companies to leverage aerospace as a primary go-to-market channel. Over its 13-week duration, startups receive $120,000 in funding for 6% equity, alongside invaluable mentorship and access to an extensive network. The inaugural class of 2020 featured 10 innovative companies specializing in areas such as geospatial analytics, satellite servicing, and AI in space. Key figures behind the initiative include founders such as Brad Feld and David Cohen, who have established a global platform that nurtures investment and innovation within this dynamic field.

Techstars Allied Space Accelerator's Website

The accelerator, powered by Techstars, is an innovative initiative designed to propel startups in the financial technology (FinTech) sector. This three-month program focuses on fostering growth and innovation in the movement of money, addressing industry challenges through solutions in areas such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, blockchain technologies, analytics, and omni-channel platforms. Participating startups benefit from funding, dedicated co-working space at Serendipity Labs in Denver, and intensive business strategy support. They also gain access to the extensive Techstars network and mentorship from industry experts. The program emphasizes collaboration and learning, allowing startups to refine their business models and develop market strategies effectively. Key figures such as Brad Feld, Chisa Egbelu, Daniel Mason, David Brown, David Cohen, and Jared Polis are notable founders associated with this initiative. Though the exact number of startups supported each year varies, the program continues to attract innovative entrepreneurs working on disruptive solutions in cross-border payments, remittances, and financial inclusion, ultimately aiming to transform the global movement of money.

The Western Union Accelerator's Website

This premier program located in Indianapolis, Indiana, is dedicated to fostering innovation in the sports technology sector. As part of a global platform that emphasizes investment and innovation, it is specifically tailored for startups focusing on the future of sport. Spanning a duration of 13 weeks, the next program begins on December 13th, 2024. The accelerator addresses emerging domains within the SportsTech industry, including wearables, OTT streaming, NIL, AI, ticketing, FemTech, and sports media. In 2023, the cohort comprised 13 promising companies. Notable partners include Pacers Sports & Entertainment and Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Mentorship is provided by industry leaders, such as the founder of FanDuel and the CEO of WHOOP. Founders include prominent figures like Brad Feld, Chisa Egbelu, and David Cohen, ensuring that the program is backed by extensive experience. The initiative aims to enhance a culture of internal innovation and entrepreneurship while identifying key trends in the sports technology landscape.

Techstars Sports Accelerator's Website

This 13-week program, based in Los Angeles, is dedicated to fostering the next generation of space technology companies and related frontier technologies. Established in partnership with the United States Space Force and NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, it prioritizes startups from adjacent industries, including automotive, agriculture, energy, mining, finance, and manufacturing. The initiative emphasizes technologies applicable in the aerospace sector, such as autonomy and robotics. Participating companies, which will join the program starting December 2024, gain access to industry leaders and mentors from prominent organizations like Lockheed Martin, Maxar Technologies, and The Aerospace Corporation. The program is designed to assist startups with market positioning, customer acquisition, product development, and overall growth. Key dates include the opening of applications on May 22, 2024, and the final deadline on September 9, 2024. Founders of the broader initiative include Brad Feld, Chisa Egbelu, Daniel Mason, David Brown, David Cohen, and Jared Polis. The aim is to propel startups by connecting them with seasoned experts and providing valuable industry insight.

Techstars Starburst Space Accelerator's Website

The accelerator, located in Boulder, Colorado, operates a three-month program designed to connect entrepreneurs with conservationists, corporate partners, and investors to foster innovation that supports global sustainability. Launched in partnership with The Nature Conservancy, the program encourages diverse applicants from around the world to develop tech solutions addressing food, water, and climate challenges. It focuses on industries such as Environmental Tech, Fintech, and Renewable Energy, providing invaluable mentorship from industry experts to help startups scale commercially viable businesses. The latest program commenced on September 13, 2021, culminating in a Demo Day on December 9, 2021. Founders involved in this initiative include prominent figures such as Brad Feld, Chisa Egbelu, Daniel Mason, David Brown, David Cohen, and Jared Polis. The organization is committed to creating a better world by driving innovation in sustainability and addressing critical environmental issues.

Techstars Sustainability's Website

This social impact accelerator is dedicated to building coordinated movements of entrepreneurs focused on addressing economic inequality in America. It has engaged with over 87 social impact startups, helping them raise more than $254 million in total funding. With an emphasis on fostering early-stage solutions, the organization operates in industries such as Edtech, Fintech, and Social Media. Founded by notable figures Banks Benitez, Teju Ravilochan, and Tyler Hartung, the accelerator plays a crucial role in supporting ventures that strive to create positive social change. By empowering these entrepreneurs with the resources they need, it effectively addresses critical challenges posed by economic disparities in society.

Uncharted's Website

Founded in 2007, this original program specializes in nurturing early-stage B2B SaaS companies across high-technology sectors such as FinTech, AI/ML, Cleantech, Cybersecurity, and HealthTech. It has successfully backed over 200 companies, which have collectively raised more than $2 billion in capital. Operating in a hybrid format, founders spend the first and final weeks in-person in Boulder, Colorado, allowing for a remote-first experience throughout the 12-week program. The core mission is to support founders in achieving product-market fit faster, offering three key pillars of value: mentorship and networks, fundraising assistance, and tool development. Esteemed mentors, including Sue Heilbronner, Wendy Lea, and Eric Marcoullier, guide participants utilizing their industry expertise. Led by notable figures such as Brad Feld, David Cohen, and Chisa Egbelu, the institution continues to play a pivotal role in transforming innovative ideas into successful ventures. It equips founders with the resources and knowledge necessary for growth, from pre-seed stages to potential IPOs.

Techstars Boulder Accelerator's Website

Based in Boulder, Colorado, this organization specializes in bespoke accelerator programs that empower startups to transform innovative ideas into profitable and scalable businesses. Their mission is to accelerate champions of change who recognize the critical role of innovation in advancing societal well-being. The accelerator focuses on various fields including Health Tech, Connectivity, Hardware, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The 12-week program provides $20,000 in seed funding, alongside over $1.7 million in discounts for participating founders. It also offers access to mentorship, business resources, and a comprehensive company-building curriculum. Noteworthy founders include Erin Stadler, Jack Donenfeld, Jason Searfoss, Jose Vieitez, Stephen Groth, and Toby Krout. The institution has cultivated a vibrant community that supports founders and their ventures while emphasizing the impact of technology across sectors such as healthcare, information technology, and software. They host Demo Days, which provide startups with the opportunity to showcase their progress to potential investors, further enhancing their chances for growth and success.

Boomtown Accelerators's Website

An esteemed invite-only organization founded in 2010 and based in Denver, Colorado, it operates a community of over 70 accelerators globally, creating a robust ecosystem that caters to a diverse range of startups. Notable accelerators within this network include H-Farm in Italy, NXTP Labs in Argentina, and Sparklabs in South Korea. The institution specializes in various industries, including biotech, fintech, healthcare technology, and SaaS (Software as a Service), providing a platform for innovation across multiple sectors. With a founder-first approach, it emphasizes mentorship-driven programs that are designed to be favorable to entrepreneurs. Key figures behind the organization include renowned entrepreneurs Brad Feld and David Cohen, who have played a significant role in shaping its mission. The value lies in the mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources provided, enabling startups to grow and thrive within an integrated global network.

Global Accelerator Network's Website

This leading venture fund and accelerator focuses on investing in high-growth startups with a commitment to female leadership. Since its founding in 2015, the organization has invested in 44 exceptional companies, empowering them through a robust support system. The accelerator program typically spans 12 weeks, during which selected startups benefit from tailored mentorship, workshops, and access to critical funding. It boasts a strong network comprising 300 mentors and 600 investors, providing invaluable resources for growth. While specific specialization domains are not overtly defined, they invest across a wide range of industries, including fintech and personal finance, as long as the startups feature at least one female leader. Sue Heilbronner, one of the founders, plays a pivotal role in steering this institution towards its mission of fostering authentic leadership and supporting the success of women-led ventures.

MergeLane's Website

This leading venture fund and accelerator is dedicated to investing in high-potential startups with at least one woman in a leadership role. Founded in 2015 by Sue Heilbronner, the organization has invested in 44 exceptional companies, emphasizing diversity and authentic leadership within the startup ecosystem. The accelerator specializes in sectors such as fintech and personal finance, fostering innovation across a diverse range of industries. It boasts an extensive network of 300 mentors and 600 investors, providing invaluable support to its portfolio companies. The accelerator program lasts for 12 weeks, equipping startups with the tools and resources needed to succeed in their respective markets. Through its focused investment strategy and commitment to empowering women leaders, they continue to make significant contributions to the entrepreneurial landscape.

Mergelane's Website

Startup Weekend is a transformative three-day pre-accelerator program designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, operating in over 150 countries worldwide. It has successfully hosted more than 7,000 programs, engaging over 428,000 participants, all facilitated by a network of 19,000+ community leaders dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship. The program immerses participants in the startup ecosystem where they can pitch ideas, develop concepts, and validate their entrepreneurial endeavors in a dynamic, collaborative environment. It spans diverse industries, including General Tech, Healthcare Tech, SaaS, and Social Media, catering to a variety of interests from software development to social impact initiatives. Throughout the program, attendees benefit from experiential learning opportunities led by experienced mentors, enhancing their skills through workshops and pitch practices. Beyond skill development, they build invaluable networks, connecting with potential cofounders, mentors, and investors, while fostering a sense of community and collaboration. Founded by visionaries such as Alex Santana, Andrew Hyde, and Marc Nager, this initiative serves as a catalyst for entrepreneurial growth, inspiring creativity and innovation among budding entrepreneurs eager to turn their ideas into reality.

Startup Weekend's Website

Founded in 2020 by RMI (Rocky Mountain Institute) and New Energy Nexus, this accelerator is dedicated to clean energy and climate tech. Its mission is to build an inclusive, global ecosystem that rapidly finds, funds, and scales climate tech innovations while transforming markets. Launched in December 2020, it started with a groundbreaking cohort of 46 companies, marking it as the largest collection of climate tech startups globally. The institution actively supports these startups across various domains, including batteries, biofuels, and business model innovations, all aimed at emissions reduction and sustainability. Additionally, it connects its startups with a network of committed investors, encompassing venture capital firms and corporate partners, facilitating access to the necessary funding for growth and commercialization. Participants benefit from invaluable access to a global network of experts, mentors, and market specialists. Key figures behind the organization include founders Bryan Hassin, Elaine Hsieh, Jon Creyts, and Josh Agenbroad. Through its comprehensive support and innovative approach, this accelerator is empowering climate tech entrepreneurs and driving positive change in the clean energy sector.

Third Derivative's Website

This economic development-focused accelerator and incubator in Colorado is dedicated to early-stage companies at the Pre-Seed to Series A levels. The mission-driven organization plays a crucial role in the states innovation economy by offering rigorous, holistic 14-week programs designed to support founders of emerging technology startups. The primary goals of these programs are to accelerate economic growth, provide capital, and create and retain jobs. A key initiative, the Survive and Thrive Program, in partnership with the City of Colorado Springs, includes a Revolving Loan Fund that provides loans up to $50,000 to local businesses, enhancing sustainable growth through mentorship and comprehensive support. Specializing in sectors such as artificial intelligence, biotech, fintech, and clean energy, entrepreneurs benefit from financial assistance as well as extensive mentorship, access to a strong network of industry leaders, investors, and tailored capacity-building resources. Led by Vance F. Brown, the institution reinforces its commitment to fostering entrepreneurial growth and driving economic prosperity within Colorado Springs and beyond.

Exponential Impact's Website

The organization provides a comprehensive business incubator and accelerator designed specifically for tech startups aiming to innovate within the smart city sector. The program is free and targeted towards New Majority tech founders, professionals, and students, focusing on individuals developing solutions that address urban challenges. It offers both an incubator program for early-stage startups and an accelerator program for more mature companies looking to scale, refine their business models, and secure funding. Specialization domains include infrastructure, transportation, accessibility, climate and air quality, and energy. Emphasizing diversity and equity, the institution actively supports underrepresented founders such as women and individuals with disabilities. Participants benefit from a robust professional curriculum led by industry experts, use of a standalone 5G network, access to a prototyping makerspace lab, and a coworking space with conference and event amenities. With no equity stake required, this federally funded initiative fosters an inclusive environment for startups committed to leveraging technology for urban problem-solving. The accelerator strives to create impactful solutions that enhance the quality of life in urban settings.

Smart Futures Lab's Website

The Business Incubator Center is a hub for nurturing and supporting early-stage startups in Mesa County and the surrounding region. Their mission is to support the launch, growth, stabilization, and long-term success of businesses. They have successfully incubated and supported a diverse range of start-ups. The center has helped several start-ups secure funding and focuses on various domains including technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The accelerator likely connects these start-ups with potential investors and offers programs lasting several months, providing mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities. Founded by Western Colorado Business Development Corp, an urban development organization, the center offers additional benefits such as access to co-working spaces, networking events, and connections to industry experts, creating a collaborative ecosystem for entrepreneurs to learn and grow. Operating as an Association and Non-Profit, the Business Incubator Center is a valuable resource for the local business community seeking to thrive and succeed.

Business Incubator Center's Website

The Catalyst Accelerator, run in collaboration with Catalyst Campus for Technology and Innovation (CCTI), the United States Space Force, and the Air Force Research Laboratory, specializes in training space technology companies to address challenges identified by the DoD. The current 13th cohort concentrates on Space Domain Awareness (SDA), crucial for national security by swiftly detecting and responding to threats against US space assets. Powered by the Air Force Research Laboratory Space Vehicles Directorate (AFRL/RV) and partnering with The Space Domain Awareness Tools, Applications & Processing Lab (SDA TAP Lab), the accelerator hosts seven small businesses globally, with sessions occurring biweekly from March 19th to June 14th. The program includes interactions with experts, government/commercial Navigators, and a robust customer discovery phase. Culminating in a Demo Day on June 13th, participants like Active Vigilance from Cheyenne, Wyoming, present their technologies to potential partners and investors. Graduates may further engage with the SDA TAP Lab's 4th Project Apollo cohort. With a focus on Artificial Intelligence and Space Tech industries, the Catalyst Accelerator offers a mentor-driven curriculum, fostering connections and business growth opportunities for startups in the space technology sector.

The Catalyst Accelerator's Website

The Deming Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Colorado Boulder, part of the Leeds School of Business, is dedicated to cultivating entrepreneurial thinkers and leaders. Located in Boulder, a prime startup hub, the organization strategically bridges the university with the local entrepreneurial community. It offers students myriad opportunities, including a Certificate in Entrepreneurial Studies, the High Growth Venture Fellowshipa two-year program for select MBA candidatesand the New Venture Launch Class for aspiring founders and teams. Key initiatives such as 'Buffs with a Brand,' led by Executive Director Erick Mueller, assist student-athletes in monetizing their Name, Image, and Likeness without jeopardizing their athletic scholarships. The center's influence extends across sectors like Edtech and General Tech while fostering connections with industry leaders and enhancing community engagement. Committed to providing world-class research, it equips students to drive impactful change in both high-growth companies and their communities. Notable founder Ryan Ferrero is among those associated with the program, which continues to empower future innovators to create lasting economic and social value.

University of Colorado - Deming Center for Entrepreneurship's Website

Entrepreneurship@DU, based at the Daniels College of Business at the University of Denver, is a hub of entrepreneurship, innovation, and creativity in the region and beyond. The institution's BASE Camp Accelerator is a selective 6-week summer program tailored for student-run startups within their ecosystem. It is open to degree-seeking University of Denver students, alumni, and this year, two alumni teams at the MVP or product validation stage. The program aims to help startups grow, accelerate their business ideas, find market fit, and create value. Accepted startups receive a private office, access to collaborative workspaces, curated workshops, one-on-one advising with industry experts, and a $5,000 stipend. The application process includes filling out an online form, pitching the idea, a 30-minute interview, and final acceptance announcements. BASE Camp is open to startups from various domains, including Edtech. Notable benefits of the program include support for student entrepreneurs to develop their startups while gaining valuable insights and networking opportunities with mentors and peers.

Entrepreneurship@DU's Website

This non-profit research and development consortium is dedicated to fostering transformative, life-changing innovations that are globally adoptable and scalable, enhancing community connectivity. Within its framework, the UpRamp accelerator program plays a crucial role by connecting established startups and later-stage emerging technology companies to the vast broadband network. This distinct accelerator, known as the Fiterator, features a three-month, non-resident format designed exclusively for companies with existing market products. Each session accommodates a maximum of four startups, concentrating on forging real deals and establishing reference customers, as opposed to traditional demo days. Eligible startups are required to have raised capital or developed a sustainable revenue stream to engage with the growing cable and broadband sector. Participants benefit from a robust network of over 250 senior-level mentors from the organization and its member operators. A notable success story includes DeepField, which, after collaborating with UpRamp, is now integrated into over 85% of U.S. cable companies. The program emphasizes domains relevant to the cable industry, such as cybersecurity, Internet of Things (IoT), and AI, effectively bridging the gap between startup acceleration and scaling in the broadband space. Phil McKinney is a key figure in leading these initiatives.

CableLabs's Website

TiE Colorado is the Colorado chapter of TiE Global, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs worldwide. With a mission to revolutionize entrepreneurship, it operates through five pillars: mentoring, networking, education, incubating, and funding. The core of their accelerator is the 6-week Propel program, providing 20 hours of classroom instruction where participants enhance their business planning, presentation skills, and pitching abilities. Focusing on various industry domains, TiE Colorado aspires to position Colorado as a premier entrepreneurship hub with the support of charter members, the TiE Global Network, and strategic partners. The accelerator aims to empower entrepreneurs through mentorship, education, and pitching practice, contributing to the growth of businesses across diverse sectors.

TiE Colorado's Website

This international organization focuses on repurposing capitalism by supporting a Fellowship for growth-stage entrepreneurs dedicated to addressing global challenges. The FUTURE initiative, a key component of its mission, aligns cutting-edge technologies with the future of inclusive work and social equity. The initiative emphasizes impactful ventures that target two primary areas: the Future of Learning and Education, and Advanced Technologies for Human Potential. It utilizes innovations such as robotics, 3D fabrication, machine learning, and nano-technology. By collaborating with partners like the Fossil Foundation, Pearson, and Accenture, the goal is to leverage technological advancements to foster social equity and inclusivity. Mentors and specialists from diverse backgrounds contribute their expertise to help participating ventures maximize their potential. The focus is on creating meaningful impact rather than adhering to traditional success metrics. The vision is driven by Daniel Epstein, a notable founder, who encompasses a broad range of industries, including Artificial Intelligence, Edtech, General Tech, and Robotics. Through its multi-year initiative, this organization is not merely an accelerator but a movement focused on forging a more equitable future of work.

Unreasonable Group's Website

Walnut St. Labs, co-founded by Chris Dima and Kevin Fleming, is a startup incubator situated in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Since its establishment in November 2013, it has been committed to funding early-stage companies across various industries like Ecommerce, General Tech, and SaaS. The ecosystem of Walnut St. Labs includes events, coworking space, and an innovation consultancy that specializes in technology, software, and data analytics. While the exact number of start-ups associated with the accelerator is unspecified, it is known to provide support to early-stage ventures, offering benefits such as access to events, coworking facilities, and expertise from the consultancy. Walnut St. Labs plays a critical role in assisting businesses to enhance their online traffic, generate more leads, increase sales, and gain deeper insights through services like HubSpot, WordPress, and custom analytics consulting.

Walnut St. Labs's Website

This prominent IT consulting firm specializes in connecting organizations with clients through messaging applications. It is the driving force behind the GenAI Accelerator 2024, a collaborative initiative with OpenAI and The Agency Fund, designed to empower social impact organizations in education, health, and economic mobility. The 8-week accelerator supports ten organizations, equipping them to design, test, launch, and scale AI-powered chat solutions using Generative AI techniques. The program aims to democratize access to information regarding responsible AI use for social good. Participants benefit from funding, API credits, and expert training, alongside world-class technical guidance in utilizing Large Language Models (LLMs). Furthermore, the accelerator develops playbooks that will be accessible to other impact organizations, emphasizing the responsible adoption of AI technologies. Through this initiative, the institution is committed to driving transformative change and enhancing global well-being by harnessing the potential of secure AI-supported chat solutions.

Turn.io- GenAI Accelerator's Website

Watson Institute powers venture and career accelerators for next-generation entrepreneurs and leaders through a fully-funded fellowship program designed for impact-driven individuals. The accelerator spans 16 weeks and provides participants access to a global network, comprehensive training, and mentorship from seasoned professionals, venture capitalists, and executives. The program includes various fellowships tailored to diverse domains: the Sustainability Fellowship focuses on environmental solutions, while the Tech Fellowship encourages tech innovations tackling social, economic, and environmental challenges. Specialized fellowships also exist for entrepreneurs in areas such as impact-driven engineering, planet tech, and female empowerment. Additional fellowships support efforts against youth homelessness and poverty. With a strong emphasis on fostering impactful ventures, the institution serves as a crucial training ground for innovators across industries such as clean energy, edtech, environmental tech, renewable energy, and space tech. This initiative is characterized by its full-ride fellowships awarded based on eligibility criteria. Overall, it aims to accelerate careers and empower participants to realize their full potential while contributing positively to their communities.

Watson Institute Venture Accelerator's Website

SouthWest Colorado Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs is dedicated to fostering high-growth, job-creating companies in Southwest Colorado. They offer education, mentoring, and access to funding for startups and early-stage companies. The organization has successfully launched 53 companies, raising a total of $60,000,000 and contributing to the creation of 230 local jobs in the region. Their program previously followed a 6-month structure but has now adopted a flexible approach with customized programs. SCAPE focuses on supporting ventures across various industries, covering crucial aspects like product development and finance. The accelerator provides additional benefits such as mentoring by a dedicated community, networking opportunities, and informative events and blogs. Key figures driving the organization's mission include the mentors and entrepreneurs benefiting from its initiatives. Notable events hosted by SCAPE include 'Them Apples: Marketing & Chill' and 'West Slope Startup Week Social'. SouthWest Colorado Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs continues to play a vital role in nurturing entrepreneurship in Southwest Colorado.

SouthWest Colorado Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs's Website

Traxion is a business accelerator established in 2016, located in Golden, Colorado, dedicated to supporting early-stage companies in the scientific community. Each fall, the institution hosts a 12-week accelerator program that provides founders with a comprehensive educational experience designed to equip them for success in securing follow-on investments. They are known for providing seed capital and connecting participants to experienced business mentors and strategic partners, thereby laying a critical foundation for startups. The organization emphasizes the importance of building a supportive community that facilitates mentorship and industry connections. It specializes in various sectors including Artificial Intelligence, Clean Energy, Cybersecurity, Environmental Tech, and General Tech, fostering innovation and advancements in these fields. Through its structured program, the accelerator aims to cultivate successful outcomes for startup founders by leveraging industry expertise and resources.

Traxion (Golden)'s Website

Black Lab Sports is a venture ecosystem dedicated to unleashing human potential in the domains of Mind, Body, and Energy. Their accelerator program, Black Lab X, supports early-stage companies and entrepreneurs. Specializing in technology aligned with their mission, the organization focuses on sports, health, wellness, and energy-related ventures. The program aims to invest in, launch, and scale companies with founders who embody purpose-driven innovation. Participants of the accelerator program typically gain access to mentorship, resources, networking opportunities, and potential funding, leveraging the expertise of the team and industry professionals. Despite undisclosed specific metrics, the core goal of the program remains fostering innovation while pushing the boundaries of human potential.

Black Lab Sports's Website

The Shell GameChanger Accelerator Powered by NREL (GCxN) is a multimillion-dollar, multiyear program aiming to discover and advance emerging clean technologies shaping the future global energy landscape. It focuses on high-risk, high-impact technologies in the energy sector, partnering with early-stage cleantech start-ups to provide financial resources, access to top-notch facilities, and expert technical guidance. The accelerator operates through an invitation-only process, with applicants referred by Channel Partners specializing in clean energy. A technical advisory board, including NREL engineers and GCxN staff, selects companies for each cohort based on specific technology themes such as energy storage, grid integration, fast charging, and more. Notable start-ups associated with GCxN include DTE Materials, Hexas Biomass, Zila Bioworks, and Invizyne Technologies. The program collaborates with Shell GameChanger and utilizes resources from the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory. GCxN accelerates top climate technologies to market, offering access to NREL's facilities, mentorship, and a reduced technology development risk for participants. Prominent alumni include Hexas and Zila bioworks

GCxN's Website

The accelerator program is dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Southwest Colorado, particularly within rural communities where such services are often lacking. It aims to create a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing essential resources, including intensive acceleration bootcamps, mentorship from accomplished entrepreneurs in residence, and access to capital funds for seed investments. A highlight of the program is the Demo Day, where startups can pitch for follow-on investment, alongside the benefits of a coworking space and networking opportunities through a Trustee Network. Since its inception in 2013, it has established an impressive track record with an alumni portfolio that showcases the impact of its initiatives on the region's economic dynamism. The focus remains on building a self-sustaining ecosystem across diverse industries, including technology, outdoor recreation, and sustainability. Located in the scenic Telluride, Colorado, the organization not only inspires creativity but also enables startups to leverage local expertise and resources, making it a key player in the areas entrepreneurial landscape.

Telluride Venture Network's Website

REACH Energy Accelerator, powered by Innosphere Ventures and the CSU Energy Institute, focuses on supporting energy hardtech innovations to bring transformative ideas to the global market. The program, with a duration of 12 months, selects 1015 hardtech startup companies from 14 states in the Rocky Mountain Great Plains region for each cohort. The 2022 cohort included 13 funded participants, showcasing strong investor engagement. Participants benefit from consultation, prototyping and testing resources, techno-economic analysis, and market research support at no cost. The accelerator, backed by the Office of Technology Transitions and Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator (IN2), emphasizes advancing energy hardtech innovations like renewable energy, grid technologies, energy storage, and efficiency solutions. Notable for uniting hardtech innovation across states, REACH fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange. Key figures behind the program include the partners from the Office of Technology Transitions and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory managing the IN2 program.

REACH Energy Accelerator's Website

Established in 2013, this innovative program located in Boulder, Colorado, is dedicated to supporting early-stage startups through tailored mentorship, funding, and resources. The accelerator focuses on several key verticals, including Patient Safety Health Tech, Hardware & Connectivity, and General Tech. Each program is customized to meet the specific needs of founders, incorporating a specialized curriculum and access to expert mentors who provide invaluable insights and guidance. Spanning a duration of 12 weeks, participants receive an immersive experience to refine their business models and strategies. Notably, the facility includes Boomtown HQ, which offers office and collaboration space, as well as the Connectivity Lab for hardware and software innovation workshops. Furthermore, startups benefit from opportunities to connect with venture capitalists and potential customers, enhancing their chances for success in the competitive landscape. Located in a city that Forbes ranks as the #1 best city for starting a business, this institution plays a significant role in nurturing the local startup ecosystem.

Boomtown Boulder Tech Accelerator's Website