Georgia's top accelerators and incubators handpicked for you

Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the accelerator is a prominent startup program in the Southeastern United States, designed to support emerging businesses. This 13-week initiative typically commences in October, with applications opening on January 16th and a final deadline of July 15th. The organization focuses on nurturing startups across various domains, emphasizing technology, innovation, and social impact. Areas of particular interest include STEM training, environmental sustainability, and community enrichment. Participants receive tailored support from the Cox Enterprises team and benefit from the expansive Techstars network, fostering valuable connections within the startup ecosystem. The program offers essential learning opportunities that equip entrepreneurs with tools necessary for building successful ventures. With a standard deal providing $120,000 for 6% equity, it supports early-stage businesses through both venture capital and seed funding. Key figures from Cox Enterprises actively mentor alongside industry experts, creating a collaborative environment. This makes it an appealing opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to make a meaningful impact in their fields.

Techstars Atlanta Powered by Cox Enterprises's Website

The accelerator program is dedicated to providing equitable access to funding and support for entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, particularly targeting Black, Hispanic and Latino, Indigenous American, and Pacific Islander founders. It emphasizes key domains such as Commerce Technology, Consumer Brands and Platforms, and the Creator Economy, actively working to dismantle institutional and structural barriers that limit opportunities. The upcoming cohorts will adopt a remote-first format, featuring in-person sessions during the first and final weeks. Applications for Spring 2024 will open on March 4th, with the program commencing on June 6th. The Fall 2024 cycle starts with applications on May 22nd and the program beginning on December 5th. Each 13-week program offers $120,000 in exchange for 6% equity and provides valuable mentorship from a network of experienced industry professionals. The accelerator culminates in a Demo Day, where participating startups present their innovations to potential investors. Founded by prominent figures such as Brad Feld and David Cohen, the initiative plays a pivotal role in fostering diversity and creating a thriving ecosystem for early-stage ventures across industries like Consumer Electronics, Ecommerce, Fintech, and SaaS.

Techstars Atlanta Powered by J.P. Morgan's Website

The Advanced Technology Development Center is a prominent technology incubator and accelerator located in Georgia, USA, dedicated to scaling transformative technology companies. With a vision to establish the state as the premier location for tech startups, it has supported numerous early-stage science and technology-based ventures for over four decades. The accelerator caters to various industries, specializing in fintech, health tech, cybersecurity, and general technology. It collaborates with a network of investors, including angel investors and venture capitalists, providing startups with essential guidance and resources to secure funding. Notably, the FinTech Program, supported by a $1 million investment from Worldpay, has guided 20 fintech startups, 8 of which have successfully raised a combined $16.8 million in funding. The programs usually span several months, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and educational workshops, thus fostering a supportive entrepreneurial community. This institution has become a critical resource for tech founders in the Southeastern United States, promoting innovation and collaboration in the tech ecosystem.

ATDC's Website

The Advanced Technology Development Center is a premier technology-based incubator located in Atlanta, Georgia, with a mission to establish the state as the optimal environment for launching and scaling technology companies. Operating for over four decades at the Georgia Tech campus, it serves more than 150 companies simultaneously and annually graduates 8-10 start-ups, many of which specifically relocate to Georgia to take advantage of its resources. The organization supports a diverse range of science and technology-based ventures, including those in artificial intelligence, biotech, healthcare tech, consumer electronics, and SaaS. Notable alumni include Sila Nanotechnologies, SalesLoft, Pindrop, and Cardlytics. The center offers a unique value proposition by taking zero equity from start-ups while providing expert coaching from former technology operators. It connects entrepreneurs to vital resources, including access to capitalsecuring over $125 million in federal funding through SBIR and STTR programs. Collaborative initiatives also facilitate partnerships with industry leaders and enhance connections to a talented workforce, making it a cornerstone of innovation in Georgia's technology ecosystem.

Advanced Technology Development Center's Website

This premier 12-week accelerator program is dedicated to fostering innovation in the sports technology sector. Designed to support startups, it bridges the gap between promising ideas and commercial viability, focusing on pilots and strategic partnerships. Participants benefit from direct access to key decision-makers across a consortium that includes prominent entities such as NBC Sports, Sky Sports, Comcast Spectacor, and collaborations with renowned organizations like NASCAR, WWE, Premier League, and PGA TOUR. Additionally, the program engages with Olympic sports organizations including U.S. Ski & Snowboard, USA Swimming, and USA Cycling. Each selected startup receives an investment of $50,000, backed by Comcast and operating partner Boomtown, to facilitate their growth. The accelerator offers a tailored sports tech curriculum developed by industry experts and provides startups with a robust international network of advisors, enhancing their chances of success in the competitive sports ecosystem. This initiative represents a significant opportunity for innovators transforming the sports landscape through technology.

Comcast NBCUniversal SportsTech's Website

This premier 13-week accelerator program located in Atlanta, Georgia, serves as a hub for startup activity in the Southeast U.S. Set to commence on October 7th, 2024, it encourages entrepreneurs to develop meaningful companies and enduring brands across various focus areas, including Fintech, General Tech, and Personal Finance. The application period opens on January 16th, 2024, and concludes with the final deadline on July 15th, 2024. Participants receive tailored support from the team at Cox Enterprises, facilitating their learning of essential business building blocks during the acceleration phase. The program culminates in a Demo Day where startups present their advancements and pitch to potential investors. Founded by industry leaders including Brad Feld, Chisa Egbelu, and David Cohen, this initiative provides valuable access to funding, mentorship, and a robust network, significantly enhancing participants' chances of success in the competitive business landscape.

Techstars Atlanta in Partnership with Cox Enterprises's Website

Emory University is a prestigious private research university, hosting the Start:ME Accelerator Program at its Business & Society Institute. This intensive three-month accelerator is focused on supporting micro-entrepreneurs in underserved metro Atlanta communities, specifically in Clarkston, East Lake-Kirkwood, and Historic South Atlanta. Since its launch in 2013, the program has empowered a total of 395 small businesses, with 44 new ventures served in 2023 alone. It targets entrepreneurs who are starting businesses with 1-4 employees, aiming to foster community vitality and economic growth. By enhancing participants' business skills through specialized training, offering mentorship from experienced professionals, and providing early-stage financing, Start:ME helps micro-entrepreneurs develop thriving businesses. The institute also focuses on microbusiness development and engages in specialty coffee research, promoting transparency and creating benchmarks in the industry. This initiative, along with other sectors like Edtech, Food and Beverage, and Healthcare Tech, underscores the commitment to nurturing innovative entrepreneurial endeavors, contributing significantly to the local economy and making a meaningful impact in Atlanta's communities.

Emory University - Social Enterprise Center's Website

The Institute for Leadership and Entrepreneurship serves as a pivotal entity within the Enterprise Innovation Institute at Georgia Institute of Technology. As a state-funded research university, it concentrates on fostering entrepreneurship, startup development, and business growth while promoting values-based leadership and socially responsible entrepreneurship. The accelerator aims to build entrepreneurial confidence among students, researchers, and business leaders, facilitating a culture of human-centered values and core-level change. The organization collaborates with student entrepreneurs through initiatives like CREATE-X, contributing to the generation of jobs and revenue while establishing connections with industry experts, mentors, and investors. It focuses on diverse domains such as technology and social impact, working alongside the Scheller College of Business to promote leadership development across various sectors. In 2022, the Enterprise Innovation Institute positively impacted the economy, working with 15,785 clients, creating or preserving 13,891 jobs, and securing $2.4 billion in capital investments. Notable founders include Merrick Furst and Nathaniel Edwin Harris, highlighting its influential role in Georgia's economic landscape and beyond.

Georgia Tech - Institute for Leadership and Entrepreneurship's Website

A prominent startup accelerator, dedicated to commercializing technology developed within the Georgia Institute of Technology's research programs, collaborates closely with faculty and students to evaluate the commercial potential of innovations. It connects them with experienced entrepreneurs, facilitating the launch of hundreds of startups, which have collectively raised over $1.5 billion in investments. This institution is recognized for its excellence, ranked #2 worldwide among university startup incubation and support programs. The accelerator specializes in various domains, including engineering, science, and technology, providing ongoing support without charging fees or requiring equity from the startups it backs. Startups can access various funding opportunities, including grants from the Georgia Research Alliance and federal programs like NSF PFI: AIR-TT and SBIR/STTR funds. Guided by founders Merrick Furst and Nathaniel Edwin Harris, it plays a vital role in bridging the gap between research and commercialization, ensuring that innovations effectively reach the market.

Georgia Tech - VentureLab (Tech Transfer)'s Website

This philanthropic, multi-institutional accelerator is designed to support the commercialization of early-stage medical technologies. Founded by Merrick Furst and Nathaniel Edwin Harris, the program highlights collaboration between Emory University and the Georgia Institute of Technology, guiding the translation of medical innovation into market solutions. The initiative focuses on technologies with intellectual property held at these institutions and offers significant resources for development. Notably, the fund allocates over $1.5 million annually to fuel advancements in early-stage medical technologies through a competitive application process. The educational component provides resources to faculty, students, post-doctoral trainees, and community members interested in life science commercialization. Additionally, it delivers active project management and coordination with the broader life sciences ecosystem for awardees. An Oversight Committee, comprising clinical, industry, regulatory, investment, and entrepreneurial experts, oversees project selection and provides strategic guidance. Focused primarily on biotech, edtech, and healthcare technology, the organization emphasizes a commitment to fostering innovation and advancing healthcare solutions.

Biolocity's Website

This esteemed accelerator program affiliated with the Georgia Institute of Technology is dedicated to transforming research and innovation into successful startups. Since its inception, it has supported the launch of hundreds of startups, which have collectively raised over $1.5 billion in investments. Recently, a study recognized it as the #2 university startup incubation and support program worldwide. Emphasizing evidence-based entrepreneurship, the organization guides startups through a rigorous customer discovery process to validate their business models. They do not charge fees or take equity in the companies they support. Access to various funding sources is provided, including grants from the Georgia Research Alliance, loans, equity investments, and federal grants such as the NSF PFI: AIR-TT program. The accelerator specializes in diverse fields encompassing technology, engineering, and sciences. Its team, comprised of experienced engineers and entrepreneurs, offers mentorship and legal support to help startups navigate the complexities of invention disclosures and intellectual property filings. Founded by Merrick Furst and Nathaniel Edwin Harris, it bridges academia with entrepreneurship, fostering innovation and bringing Georgia Tech's groundbreaking ideas to market.

Georgia Tech VentureLab's Website

This social impact pre-accelerator, founded in 2014, is dedicated to supporting diverse founders and social entrepreneurs. Its mission is to bridge the relationship gap experienced by these individuals by providing access to capital, mentorship, and valuable connections within the innovation space. The organization offers several tailored programs, including the three-month Impact Pre-Accelerator, the Next Generation Pre-Seed Startup Program, the Seed Stage Startup Program, and the Series A Circle. Each of these programs is designed to guide participants through different stages of their entrepreneurial journey. In 2023, the institution reported total social capital available to founders amounting to $1,693,400, along with impressive engagement metrics such as 1,325 one-on-one sessions and 3,651 attendees at founder huddles. The focus lies on sectors such as social impact, technology, and innovation, with an emphasis on supporting those with limited access to resources. Founded by Joey Womack, it serves as a robust network that facilitates relationship-building, enhances funding opportunities, and ultimately aims to foster sustainable growth for founders in the social impact arena.

Goodie Nation's Website

The Social Entrepreneurship Program (SEP) at Mercer University, based in Macon, Georgia, is a trans-disciplinary minor offered through the College of Liberal Arts. It empowers students to establish socially impactful businesses and improve non-profit and religious organizations, emphasizing the importance of social and environmental concerns alongside financial sustainability. Utilizing an experiential learning approach, participants engage directly with faculty, business leaders, and community organizations locally and globally. Students collaborate in teams to devise innovative solutions addressing critical global issues such as climate change, poverty, and healthcare. As an impact incubator, it fosters creativity and practical solutions aimed at enacting substantial change. The program encompasses various specialization areas related to social and environmental impact. Notable initiatives at the institution, such as the Mercer Innovation Center, support entrepreneurial endeavors through programs like the Mercer Innovation Fellowship and The Next Big Idea pitch competition. Industries represented within SEP include Edtech, Environmental Tech, and Healthcare Tech, reflecting a strong commitment to addressing pressing challenges through social entrepreneurship.

Mercer University - Social Entrepreneurship Program's Website

The Center for Civic Innovation serves as a resource hub and open campus for community-based social entrepreneurs at all stages, with a particular emphasis on early-stage, untested projects. Founded by Rohit Malhotra, the organization specializes in civic innovation, equity-related initiatives, and community empowerment. Dedicated to assisting innovators in addressing local social challenges, it firmly believes that decisions should be made by communities, not for them. The center provides essential support through coworking space, networking opportunities, and resources that enrich the entrepreneurial journey. Additionally, it chairs the steering committee for the Regional Digital Equity Coalition, actively promoting digital inclusion efforts across various regions. The organization continues to foster an environment where civic innovators can thrive and effect positive change in their communities.

Center for Civic Innovation's Website

Venture Atlanta is one of the largest venture capital conferences in the nation, focusing on supporting the Southeast's most promising tech companies. This accelerator connects founders and funders in the Southeastern United States, fostering a robust ecosystem for innovation and investment. The program has made significant contributions to a diverse range of industries, including fintech, general tech, and software as a service (SaaS). It stands out as a prominent player in the regional tech landscape, enhancing visibility and opportunities for emerging companies. The event brings together an extensive network of entrepreneurs and venture capitalists, establishing a vibrant community dedicated to the growth and success of tech ventures in the area.

Venture Atlanta's Website

This prominent consulting firm specializes in life sciences, consumer products, and retail sectors. It collaborates with businesses in these industries to promote growth and implement innovative technologies. Tailored solutions include the S/4HANA Life Sciences Accelerator, a pre-packaged deployment designed for the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device industries. This accelerator provides an estimated 30-40% time savings from project preparation to go-live compared to standard SAP implementations and is built to meet the stringent regulatory demands of the life sciences sector. Similarly, the Consumer Products Accelerator offers a modular, cost-effective deployment of SAP S/4HANA for consumer goods businesses, integrating SAPs best practices with the organization's industry expertise. Both accelerators are engineered to optimize the SAP implementation process by significantly reducing costs, time, and associated risks. Founded by James Stefan, Neil Nelson, and Tom Finegan, the institution has expertise across diverse industries, including artificial intelligence, biotech, healthcare technology, logistics and supply chain, and real estate technology. The organization continues to support businesses in navigating the complexities of their sectors with experienced consultants.

Clarkston Consulting's Website

Opportunity Hub serves as a pivotal platform aimed at advancing authentic diversity, equity, and inclusion within the startup ecosystem, particularly in the context of the fourth industrial revolution. Among its key initiatives is the HealthTech Hub Africa (HTHA) Accelerator Program, which targets healthtech startups and scale-ups addressing critical healthcare issues in Africa. The program supports innovation and scalability while partnering with government entities to amplify healthcare solutions across the continent. It emphasizes thematic areas such as Cardiovascular Health, Breast Cancer, Virtual Health, and Data-Driven Decision-Making. Participants benefit from mentorship, expert masterclasses, pitch practice sessions, and significant networking opportunities. Scale-ups enjoy additional resources, including free access to legal and marketing services, membership in the HealthTech Public-Private Partners Network, and access to funding opportunities exceeding USD 1 million. The organization is co-founded by notable individuals including Bradley Kirkland, Earl Coleman, Rodney Sampson, and Shanterria Sampson. It encompasses various industries including Edtech, Healthcare Tech, Real Estate Tech, and SaaS.

Opportunity Hub's Website

A prominent startup accelerator based in Atlanta, Georgia, it was founded in 2012 by David Cummings, David Lightburn, and Johnson Cook. Its mission is to support entrepreneurs in building successful ventures through a community that fosters connections between talent, innovative ideas, and capital. A key initiative is the 'It Takes A Village' pre-accelerator program, focusing on startups led by women and people of color. This 4-month program offers participants access to a supportive community, educational workshops, and mentorship from experienced professionals while aiming to secure seed investments and pilot opportunities. Notably, graduates of the program have collectively secured over $480K in seed investments and generated $1.9M in revenue. Participants must have a functional product, not exceeded $150K in funding, and be tech-focused companies. Amenities provided include access to its facilities, a fitness gym, and regular community events. This inclusive approach contributes to a rich ecosystem for tech entrepreneurs, enhancing diversity and driving innovation in the region.

Atlanta Tech Village's Website

The prominent tech startup incubator located in Alpharetta, Georgia, was established by the Alpharetta Technology Commission in 2012. Known as the "Tech City of the South," the area is home to over 640 technology companies and fosters a vibrant ecosystem for innovation and technology. Since its inception, the institution has hosted more than 50 tech startups spanning diverse sectors including fintech, biotech, cybersecurity, smart city solutions, data analytics, and healthcare IT. It offers a variety of resources such as private offices with 24/7 access, hot desk memberships, and facilities to host tech events and meetups. Additionally, meeting and conference room rentals are available, fostering community and networking among tech entrepreneurs and organizations. With a strategic focus on technology-driven ventures, the center plays a crucial role in supporting startups in achieving their growth potential. Key figures like Karen Cashion guide its mission to stimulate innovation in the region.

Tech Alpharetta Innovation Center's Website

The accelerator program located in Athens, Georgia, focuses on fostering innovation and supporting local businesses to create a thriving entrepreneurial community. It provides essential resources and services for startups, entrepreneurs, and small businesses, emphasizing collaboration over competition. Experienced mentoring from seasoned entrepreneurs, back office support including bookkeeping and payroll, and opportunities for community engagement through meet-ups and talks are hallmarks of this organization. Startups benefit from a diverse community of professionals, including developers, artists, and marketers. The initiative has worked with several notable companies, such as SellerLabs, DataAutomation, Shared2FA, MouseDining, Seller Accountant, Serial Track, and SkuHarmony, showcasing its involvement across various industries like e-commerce, software, and technology. They encourage innovation, education, and experimentation, aiming to shape cutting-edge solutions in the tech landscape. The program's commitment to nurturing an environment conducive to entrepreneurship is clear through its focus on supporting risk-takers and fostering respect within the business community.

Roundsphere's Website

Located in downtown Augusta, GA, this innovation center and coworking space is designed to support entrepreneurs, startups, and innovators through a comprehensive suite of resources. The facility features a makerspace, code bootcamps, a prototyping lab, and a mentorship network, all aimed at facilitating business growth and technological education. Among its offerings is a Founder Fellowship program within its Academy, focused on accelerating startups from inception to market success. The presence of member profiles highlights a vibrant community of innovators making strides in various sectors, including general technology, mobile applications, and SaaS. Additionally, the organization actively organizes workshops, seminars, and networking events to enhance collaboration among its members. With its multifaceted approach to fostering innovation, it stands out as a pivotal resource for nurturing entrepreneurial talent and driving economic growth in Augusta and beyond.

theClubhou.se's Website

Startup Atlanta is a community non-profit dedicated to promoting and connecting the startup ecosystem in Metro Atlanta. They provide essential resources, networking opportunities, and recognition for local startups through key events, including the Atlanta Startup Awards. The organization collaborates with various accelerators and incubators to support startups at different stages and in multiple sectors. Notable programs include the ATDC, which assists tech-enabled and life science businesses, and Atlanta Tech Village, focusing on diversity. Additionally, the 12-week Comcast Sports Tech Accelerator and the Techstars Accelerator, which offers a $120,000 investment, contribute to this vibrant landscape. Programs like Create-X and Engage Accelerator further support startups with varying focuses, and experienced entrepreneurs provide mentorship that is integral to their offerings. Startups gain access to valuable resources, including university facilities and expert coaching. Curriculum topics cover essential areas like customer discovery and investor readiness. Industries supported by the network include General Tech, Healthcare Tech, and Social Media, reflecting a commitment to fostering a diverse and innovative entrepreneurial environment.

Startup Atlanta's Website

ShelterTech, a technology-focused nonprofit organization led by Habitat for Humanity, is dedicated to addressing the pressing challenges of affordable housing. Operating on a global scale, it employs evidence-driven approaches to produce entrepreneurial solutions that enhance the lives of low-income families. The platform collaborates with a diverse array of stakeholders, including investors, foundations, corporations, and governments, to create a robust ecosystem for housing innovation. National programs have been established in Mexico, Kenya, and India, alongside regional initiatives launched across Southeast Asia, South America, and sub-Saharan Africa since 2022. By strategically deploying capital, the organization aims to build an investable portfolio of startups focusing on affordable housing, shelter products, and sustainable solutions. Startups in the program can access up to $25,000 in catalytic funds to refine their innovations and benefit from community engagement opportunities and targeted events for networking and learning. Noteworthy for its commitment to advancing affordable housing solutions, the institution continues to make a significant impact in the lives of low-income families around the world.

ShelterTech's Website

W3 offers a comprehensive accelerator program designed to support visionary founders in the burgeoning Web3 space. Providing seed capital, shared office space, operational resources, and hands-on management, it has successfully nurtured over 300 portfolio projects across various domains, including DeFi, NFTs, DAOs, blockchain infrastructure, identity, luxury fashion, music, gaming, and the Metaverse. The organization boasts a vast network of over 500 investors, including prominent names such as Animoca, Draper, Coinbase Ventures, and Pantera. The combined funding raised by its projects exceeds $350 million. Furthermore, founders are connected with a community of 400+ fellow entrepreneurs and granted access to over 400 mentors within the Web3 ecosystem. Founded by Bob Bailey, the institution is committed to fostering innovation and facilitating growth, making it a pivotal player for entrepreneurs looking to make an impact in the digital landscape. With a strong focus on the Open Metaverse concept, the accelerator continues to enhance its offerings to shape the future of the Web3 landscape effectively.

W3 (Investor)'s Website

The RAISE Forum, hosted by the Goizueta Business School, serves as a pivotal accelerator designed to support in-revenue startups in the Southeastern U.S. Its primary objective is to foster collaboration within the local entrepreneurial ecosystem by connecting these startups to a diverse range of investors, including venture capitalists, angel groups, and family offices. Targeting startups that have already begun generating revenue, it typically facilitates funding rounds ranging from $500,000 to $5 million. The forum emphasizes sectors such as healthcare, fintech, and general technology, while also welcoming applicants from various industries. Events are held semi-annually, with the next session scheduled for November 10. Participants can expect not only to present their growth strategies and receive feedback from investors, but also to engage in one-on-one discussions and mentorship from university representatives and local experts. This strategic initiative enhances funding opportunities for startups and strives to retain early-stage companies in the Southeast, thereby fostering regional economic growth and innovation.

Emory University - RAISE Forum for Startups and Investors's Website

Tech Nation is a prominent accelerator dedicated to nurturing game-changing founders and scaling companies that strive to transform societies and economies positively. Its vision centers on ensuring that individuals with vision and drive can access the necessary skills and support for success. The organization defines a 'scaleup' as a tech company achieving a minimum growth rate of 20% year-on-year for the past three years, with at least ten employees and either external investment or self-funding. It actively dismantles systemic barriers in the UK to support a diverse range of tech founders by addressing talent access and encouraging hypergrowth within the tech sector. The accelerator offers comprehensive programs such as 'Accelerate,' which provides essential expertise to founders, along with research publications and events that foster community engagement among tech leaders. Additionally, they administer endorsements for the Global Talent Visa, allowing top tech talent globally to establish careers in the UK. The focus remains on fostering innovation across various sectors, including digital transformation and sustainability.

Technation's Website

Ocean Visions is a non-profit accelerator that facilitates multisector collaborations to advance responsible and effective ocean-based climate solutions, endorsed by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. Its primary objective is to accelerate collaboration across various sectors and geographies to deliver durable global solutions that address ocean-related challenges. The organization focuses on a wide range of domains, including carbon dioxide removal through ocean alkalinity enhancement, equitable solutions for coastal inundation and sea level rise, and marine circular economies that promote sustainable economic models. The program emphasizes the importance of transforming policies to support responsible research and testing, while fostering a global community of scientists, innovators, and decision-makers dedicated to combating climate change. It plays a critical role in advocating for urgent and effective action to safeguard marine ecosystems. With its emphasis on carbon removal strategies and equitable solutions, the institution positions itself as a pivotal hub for innovation in clean energy and environmental technology, linking researchers and innovators aimed at ensuring a viable future for generations to come.

Ocean Visions's Website

Developed within KPMG Studio, this innovative accelerator is designed to nurture both internal and external early-stage ventures into high-growth businesses. Led by Anu Puvvada, it emphasizes the importance of AI security and trust for organizations deploying AI systems. The program features a comprehensive curriculum, offering mentorship and networking opportunities aimed at empowering entrepreneurs. The institution focuses on a diverse array of innovation ventures including generative AI, cybersecurity, new business models, HR technology, and Web3/metaverse applications. It provides an end-to-end AI security and trust platform that maps AI pipelines, validates security, and monitors for adversarial threats, integrating seamlessly with existing environments. Its commitment to fostering innovation in critical industries such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality/virtual reality, and cybersecurity is clear. This program stands out for its strategic focus on equipping businesses with essential tools and insights needed for navigating the complexities of modern technological landscapes.

The Cranium Incubator's Website

The UGA Idea Accelerator, sponsored by UGAs Entrepreneurship Program and the Advanced Technology Development Center (ATDC), is a program at the University of Georgia designed to foster entrepreneurship and support student startups. It runs twice each fall and spring semester, consisting of two four-week 'business boot camp' sessions where student teams meet weekly to work on customer discovery, strategic planning, pivoting, revenue generation, and building key contacts. Participants receive mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, advisors, and investors, gaining valuable feedback and guidance. The program culminates in a competition where teams can win a final award of $2,500, structured around three rounds focusing on customer discovery, financial literacy, and investor readiness. Specializing in essential entrepreneurship skills applicable across industries, the program offers networking opportunities, real-world experience, and financial support for startup ventures. Industries served by the institution are sector agnostic. Keep an eye out for the Fall 2024 Cohort I application opening in August for those interested in joining the program.

UGA Entrepreneurship's Website

Founded in 2021 and based in Atlanta, Georgia, this prominent accelerator and venture builder focuses on early-stage, pre-seed, and seed startups aiming for significant growth. With an Assets Under Management (AUM) of $3 million and a dry powder of $1.67 million, the firm has made a total of 27 investments, currently managing an active portfolio of 26 startups. The accelerator offers a median round amount of $1 million and a median valuation of $12 million for its investments. The majority of its deals, 59.26%, fall under the specialized accelerator/incubator category, while 29.63% are classified as early-stage VC. Focus industries include targeted consumer products and services (33.33% of deals), information technology (25.93%), and business products and services (22.22%). Notably, 96.30% of these deals are concentrated within the United States. Joshua Wingate, a partner and angel investor, serves as a primary contact within the organization. The Investor Ready Accelerator provides valuable resources, mentorship programs, and bi-weekly pitch practices, making it an excellent choice for startups looking to secure capital and support in their growth endeavors.

Startup Warrior's Website

NeuroLaunch is a pioneering global accelerator and community dedicated to supporting neuroscience startup ventures since 2014. Its mission focuses on bridging the gap between neuroscience research and real-world applications, utilizing a model specifically tailored for neurotechnology startups. The program helps remove barriers for promising neuro-startups, enabling them to rapidly bring their innovative technologies to market. Specializing in areas such as brain-computer interfaces, neuroimaging, neuromodulation, and cognitive enhancement, the organization fosters a vibrant ecosystem that nurtures a diverse range of neuroscience-focused ventures. It is known for providing seed funding to selected enterprises, and participating startups benefit from invaluable mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to industry experts. This collaborative community promotes knowledge exchange among entrepreneurs, researchers, and healthcare professionals. By applying a robust accelerator framework to the neuroscience sector, it has made a significant impact on the neurotech industry landscape, supporting innovation and growth in both the biotech and healthcare technology domains.

NeuroLaunch's Website

The premier startup incubator located in Dalton, Georgia, operates out of the historical Landmark Building. Established in 2017, it effectively combines incubator and accelerator functions to provide a comprehensive suite of resources aimed at nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship. Its mission is to capture, inspire, and strengthen the creativity of emerging entrepreneurs by offering tailored support and programming that guides small businesses towards success. The organization collaborates with various community partners, including the Wright School of Business and Believe Greater Dalton, fostering a robust ecosystem for networking and mentorship. Among its resources, it features a Content Creation Studio, enabling entrepreneurs to produce high-quality multimedia content to enhance their brand visibility. The accelerator remains committed to supporting a diverse range of sectors, reflecting its sector-agnostic approach. The impact is marked by a dedication to innovation, empowerment, and community collaboration, making it an indispensable asset for entrepreneurs in the region.

Dalton Innovation Accelerator's Website

Zane Access serves as the not-for-profit arm of the Zane Venture Fund, dedicated to empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs from various backgrounds such as Black, Latinx, Asian, Indigenous, African Diaspora, Physically Diverse, Migrant, Immigrant, Disabled, New Citizen, Veteran, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+. Under the leadership of Tope Awotona, founder of Calendly, the organization aims to close the wealth gap through innovative solutions and comprehensive support. To date, 93 companies have participated in the program, collectively raising over $17 million in capital and generating more than $12 million in revenue. The accelerator offers a range of initiatives designed to enhance the success of founders, including a Capital Readiness Program that prepares them for funding rounds and a Scholars in Residence Program providing valuable resources often overlooked in traditional accelerators. Specializing in various sectors, the institution focuses on technology, social impact, and fostering inclusivity within the investment ecosystem. By equipping bold entrepreneurs with essential tools and support, it is dedicated to creating a positive impact in the communities it serves.

Zane Access's Website

This online learning community is dedicated to helping overlooked founders transform their ideas into scalable tech ventures. The 10-week virtual pre-accelerator program targets first-time tech startup founders, focusing on validating business ideas, avoiding common pitfalls, and obtaining initial paying customers. The curriculum caters specifically to pre-product, pre-revenue, and pre-seed founders, covering essential topics such as customer discovery, creating minimum viable products, devising go-to-market strategies, demand generation, and designing growth marketing experiments. Participants will acquire valuable tools including a strategic plan, business model canvas, and a pitch deck. The program is tuition-based at $1,000 and adopts a founder-friendly model by not taking equity in the startups. Founders benefit from a supportive community and expert guidance from accomplished entrepreneurs, mentors, and advisors. This initiative opens its doors to a diverse range of tech industries, including artificial intelligence, consumer electronics, cybersecurity, mobile apps, robotics, and SaaS. Overall, it provides an invaluable experience for early-stage founders positioned to build successful ventures while retaining ownership.

Square One Startup School's Website