Missouri's top accelerators and incubators handpicked for you

This global venture capital firm and accelerator is based in Downtown St. Louis, focusing on late seed stage startups within the FinTech, InsurTech, Cyber Security, and Digital Health sectors. Established in 2013, it primarily supports companies that already have a product, market traction, and are beginning to generate revenue. With a total investment of $2.5 million in its portfolio, the organization has facilitated its startups in raising an impressive $95 million in follow-on funds. The accelerator boasts a remarkable operational retention rate of 96%, with two companies, Upside and Assembly Payments, having successfully exited. Currently, 29 companies from 7 different countries are hosted, contributing to the creation of 237 jobs since its inception. Founders Atul Kamra, Brian Matthews, and Jim McKelvey have fostered strong partnerships with organizations such as RGAx and Edward Jones, enhancing mentorship and networking opportunities for participants. Each cohort lasts 14 weeks, during which startups receive hands-on training and access to a strong financial ecosystem, paving the way for innovation in financial technology.

SixThirty's Website

Based in Missouri, this venture development organization is dedicated to creating, building, and investing in startups that address significant challenges in human health and agriculture. It operates through two main initiatives: Ventures and Labs. The Ventures focus on de-risking commercially viable innovations and making investments across early stages, specifically Pre-Seed to Seed-Series A. They develop strategic relationships with qualified investors to support their portfolio of bioscience companies. While specific metrics on the number of startups and investors are not mentioned, there is a noted track record of investing in numerous ventures within this sector. The Labs initiative complements this by offering collaborative lab and office space equipped with state-of-the-art technology. This has facilitated over $33 million in federal grants for 19 bioscience companies in St. Louis during a recent cycle. The initiative not only accelerates new ventures in bioscience but also provides coaching, grant training, and access to experienced industry expertise. Founded by Matt Helms and Tom Cohen, it plays an essential role in fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurs within the bioscience industry.

BioGenerator's Website

Capital Innovators operates a nationally recognized accelerator program that supports tech-enabled startups. Over the course of 13 weeks, these startups receive $50,000 in seed funding alongside project-based mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs. The accelerator has successfully scaled more than 180 startups from around the globe, with follow-on funding opportunities ranging from $250,000 to $1 million available for those ready to scale. The program focuses on technology and consumer products, including sectors like fintech and general tech. In addition to the accelerator, the institution makes seed and Series A venture investments in high-growth companies, fostering a robust ecosystem for innovation. They also partner with corporations to source startups for specific problem sets and run innovation programs that provide investment opportunities and enhance community growth. Furthermore, the Venture-Ready Missouri pilot course equips local entrepreneurs with skills to attract venture capital. Under the leadership of Judy Sindecuse, the organization collaborates with global leaders in technology, investment, and entrepreneurship to continuously enhance their offerings for startups and investors alike.

Capital Innovators's Website

This public-private venture capital firm promotes entrepreneurship and supports the growth of high-tech companies in Missouri. It invests directly in tech and bioscience startups to accelerate private capital and foster innovation. A particular focus is on the geospatial accelerator, launched in collaboration with the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA). This initiative aims to enhance geospatial technology by fostering connections between NGA employees and industry innovators. Operated by Capital Innovators, a leading U.S. accelerator, this program is renowned for managing corporate partnerships. The primary goal of the geospatial accelerator is to increase the number of geospatial solutions available to NGA and its clients, aligning products with NGA's mission needs across various applications including intelligence and defense. Targeting early-stage companies, the program provides a collaborative platform to develop technologies for the commercial and defense sectors while addressing significant geospatial challenges. The organization focuses on multiple industries including Artificial Intelligence, Biotech, Fintech, Healthcare Tech, Mobile Apps, and SaaS, engaging in funding activities across seed, early-stage, and late-stage VC investments.

Missouri Technology Corporation's Website

Stadia Ventures is a prominent accelerator and venture capital firm based in Saint Louis, Missouri, specializing in sports and esports. Since its inception in 2015, the organization has completed 16 accelerator cohorts and invested in 76 portfolio companies across 14 countries, focusing on lifestyle, wellness, fan engagement, content, media, entertainment, esports, and sports betting sectors. Over 40% of the portfolio founders represent underrepresented groups, reflecting a commitment to diversity and inclusion. The firm has achieved 14 successful exits, demonstrating its effectiveness in fostering growth and innovation within the industry. With a network of over 7,000 sports and business leaders and connections to more than 1,500 sports properties and businesses, it provides a robust ecosystem that supports startups at various stages of their development. The program typically spans 14 weeks, during which startups engage in intensive mentoring and networking, benefiting from access to industry experts and potential investors. Founded by Art Chou and Tim Hayden, the institution continues to significantly impact the sports and esports sectors, enabling entrepreneurs to elevate their ventures on a global scale.

Stadia Ventures's Website

The Kauffman Foundation is dedicated to unlocking opportunity for all, enhancing financial stability, upward mobility, and economic prosperity across diverse demographics. It emphasizes grant-making in education and entrepreneurship, specifically through accelerator programs designed to help startups scale and connect with early customers. These cohort-based programs run for several months and culminate in demo days where startups present their innovations to investors and stakeholders. The foundation supports various accelerators, including the UMSL DEI Accelerator, which aims to empower underrepresented founders, and the Accelerator for America, focusing on the future of work. Their commitment to entrepreneurship spans industries such as EdTech and FinTech. Founded by Ewing Marion Kauffman, they operate with the belief that all individuals should have access to the resources necessary for success, underlining their mission to foster entrepreneurship as a pathway for economic growth and community development.

Kauffman Foundation's Website

This organization accelerates early-stage agrifood tech companies, providing essential funding, mentorship, and a supportive network aimed at driving sustainable innovation in the agriculture and food sectors. The program spans nine months, during which accepted startups receive $100,000 in funding. Targeting industries such as Agriculture Tech, Biotech, Environmental Tech, Food and Beverage, General Tech, and Renewable Energy, the institution boasts a portfolio of over 80 companies globally. It emphasizes the importance of fostering relationships with a strong network of mentors and investors, enhancing the growth potential of its participants. Additionally, the program offers a dedicated workspace and global insights drawn from its extensive network, particularly leveraging its strong agricultural heritage in St. Louis. Founded by Thad Simons, the accelerator nurtures innovations across various domains, including sustainable solutions, precision agriculture, and supply chain optimization. This comprehensive approach positions the company as a key player in the advancement of technology and solutions from farm to fork, making a significant impact on the agriculture and food technology landscape.

The Yield Lab's Website

Founded in 2015 and located in Chesterfield, Missouri, this organization serves as the innovation accelerator for one of the world's largest life reinsurance companies. It is dedicated to incubating and accelerating new products and services within the life insurance ecosystem, focusing on innovation that transforms the industry. With 35 investments and a diverse portfolio of 24 companies, successful exits from 4 ventures demonstrate its impact. A team of professionals actively engages in these initiatives, emphasizing an innovative approach rooted in design thinking and lean methodology. They conduct Life Design Sprints to identify key challenges, engage stakeholders, and foster customer-focused solutions. Specializing in the fintech and SaaS sectors, the institution plays a crucial role in shaping the future of life insurance through its investments and strategic partnerships, helping to advance the field significantly.

RGAx's Website

Located in Downtown Springfield, the eFactory accelerator provides workspaces, business training, mentorships, and SBDC resources to equip startups with the necessary tools for success. The accelerator is closely associated with Missouri State University, a respected institution that offers a range of degrees. Since 2016, eFactory has kickstarted 17 startups, with the recent Cohort 5 featuring four companies. Each participating startup receives a $30,000 investment for an 8% equity stake, totaling approximately $510,000 in investments. The intensive three-month accelerator program equips founders with essential business skills and support to disrupt industries and cultivate thriving businesses. Specializing in diverse domains like Edtech, the organization pairs entrepreneurs with mentors, fosters a friendly investment environment, and prioritizes regional economic impact. Notable for its mission to drive rapid company growth, facilitate connections among founders, experts, and corporate partners, eFactory stands out for its commitment to innovation and job creation in the region.

eFactory's Website

The eFactory accelerator, located in downtown Springfield, Missouri, is affiliated with Missouri State University and focuses on supporting early-stage startups through mentorship, resources, and funding. The program runs for an intensive three months, during which participating entrepreneurs are offered $30,000 in startup capital in exchange for an 8% equity position in their business, to be repaid upon a sale or liquidity event. Since its inception in 2016, this organization has supported 17 startups, collectively attracting over $510,000 in investment. Accommodating a diverse range of industries, including edtech, general tech, and healthcare tech, it demonstrates adaptability to different market needs. Notable alumni include MOFIN Labs and Eagle Speak LLC, the latter of which was acquired by Hearo Technologies LLC. The institution fosters a supportive ecosystem, providing entrepreneurs with experienced mentors and encouraging job creation in the region. Its commitment to nurturing startups significantly contributes to local economic growth and innovation, establishing a vital resource for aspiring business leaders.

The eFactory's Website

The organization is a 10-week entrepreneurship development program based in St. Louis, Missouri, focused on empowering Black and Latinx entrepreneurs. It aims to bridge the racial wealth gap by providing founders with essential support through curriculum, connections, community, and access to capital. Participants in the inaugural cohort experienced an impressive average increase of 3.5x in monthly revenue and secured a total of $400,000 in seed capital. In partnership with Kiva, the program offers additional benefits such as grants and interest-free loans, alongside a founder-focused investment fund. Supporting a diverse range of industries, particularly in fitness and wellness, food and beverage, and healthcare technology, the program features notable entrepreneurs from the Fall '22 cohort, including Jamila Boone of Scene Event Space, Jianna Fernandez of Stride Therapy & Wellness, Shaunessi Tucker of Skin Deep Hygienic Care, Alberto Tello of Precise Roofing & Remodeling LLC, and Deborah James of Freddie Lees Gourmet Sauces. The institution is dedicated to cultivating talent within the community, fostering growth, and ensuring lasting impact through active mentorship and investment opportunities.

WEPOWER Accelerator's Website

Established in 2013, the efactory Business Accelerator Program offers a transformative twelve-week program for early-stage businesses. Each cohort, like Cohort 5 with four companies, receives $30,000 in seed money in exchange for 8% equity. The accelerator program enhances growth through specialized programming, mentorship, office spaces, networking opportunities, and Demo Day, where start-ups showcase progress to attract investors. With a focus on diverse early-stage businesses rather than specific verticals, the program aims to accelerate growth and provide unparalleled resources. Industries like Edtech benefit from this Startup Accelerator, with funding types including Pre-Seed. Notable founders and start-ups have leveraged the program to streamline their roadmap to customers and profitability, facilitated by the strong baccalaureate, masters, specialist, and doctorate degrees offered by Missouri State University, which hosts the accelerator. Key people, such as mentors and corporate partners, play a vital role in the success of the efactory accelerator, connecting communities and driving company transformations.

efactory Business Accelerator Program's Website

St. Louis University - Center for Entrepreneurship, a Catholic Jesuit institution emphasizing academic excellence, research, and commitment to faith, hosts the New Venture Accelerator (NVA) within the Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship. The NVA offers equity-free investments of up to $50,000 to SLU founders over a 14-week accelerator program designed for customized support in areas like customer discovery, validation, and revenue modeling. Eligibility requires a co-founder owning 10% or more equity to be a Saint Louis University affiliate and weekly in-person attendance. Specializing across various industries, the NVA concludes with a demo day where graduates present to investors and partners. Additional benefits include mentoring, resources, and networking opportunities. The accelerator, nurturing innovation and growth, supports ventures like Edtech within the university community. Notable founder Louis William Valentine Dubourg's legacy echoes through the entrepreneurial spirit fostered by this initiative.

St. Louis University - Center for Entrepreneurship's Website

LEANLAB Education is a nonprofit organization that specializes in codesign research between education technology companies and schools. Their vision is to close the achievement gap in K12 schools by operating as an edtech accelerator that addresses challenges faced by EdTech founders. The industry is driven by passionate individuals, yet hindered by funding limitations, inequitable distribution, and a lack of robust startup support ecosystems. The organization fosters collaboration among VCs, foundations, schools, and EdTech founders to enhance learning outcomes. The accelerator likely focuses on teacher effectiveness, personalized learning, and other relevant aspects of education technology, although specific specialization domains are not explicitly mentioned. LEANLAB Education aims for systemic change beyond numerical figures, even though exact metrics are unspecified. Founded by Katie Boody, their accelerator program typically lasts several months, offering participants benefits like mentorship, networking opportunities, and guidance on efficacy studies to navigate challenges and create impactful solutions.

Leanlab's Website

OneKC for Women is an umbrella alliance dedicated to empowering women through a comprehensive array of resources, opportunities, and connections. The organization focuses on supporting women across various stages of their professional journeys, including employment, entrepreneurship, and financial success. It collaborates with several key organizations: the Womens Employment Network, which assists women entering the workforce; the Womens Business Center, which supports business startups; and the Womens Capital Connection, providing funding opportunities for women-owned enterprises. This alliance fosters an environment where women can overcome barriers to success through job readiness programs, financial coaching, and business mentorship. The commitment to ongoing support is evident in the diverse programs offered, which are sector agnostic and cater to various needs. This ensures that women have access to the tools and mentorship necessary to thrive in their professional endeavors.

OneKC for Women's Website

This dynamic incubator program is dedicated to supporting emerging fashion designers in St. Louis. The two-year intensive initiative not only nurtures creative talent but also transforms designers into successful entrepreneurs. The inaugural class comprised six talented individuals who benefited from a comprehensive suite of tools, education, and mentorship provided by the organization. By stimulating local interest in the fashion industry and raising awareness of global trends, the initiative is pivotal in reclaiming St. Louis' status as a fashion capital. Alongside a commitment to fostering the next generation of designers, the institution is also involved in broader industry interests, including fintech, positioning itself as a vital business incubator, education center, and manufacturing hub within the international fashion design landscape.

Saint Louis Fashion Fund's Website

The Danforth Technology Company is a subsidiary of the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, focusing on the early-stage development of startup companies stemming from technologies created by Danforth Center scientists. It plays a pivotal role in connecting research with commercial impact by linking scientists with entrepreneurs, investors, and technology leaders. Situated in the 39 North AgTech Innovation District, the company contributes to shaping a leading environment for agtech startups. The accelerator specializes in plant science, agriculture, and agtech, translating scientific discoveries into practical market applications. It offers seed funding, early management, intellectual property services, and entrepreneurship support to its associated startups. While specific numbers are not disclosed, the Danforth Technology Company collaborates with early investors to reduce technology and investment risks. Notable for its work in the Agriculture Tech sector, it serves as a vital conduit for driving innovation and success in the realm of plant science startups.

Danforth Technology Company's Website

This specialized program is designed to support the growth and scaling of insurtech companies. It features an intensive 75-day accelerator focusing on startups that leverage technology to innovate within the insurance industry, aiming to enhance the client experience for independent brokers. Each year, a selective cohort of insurtech startups is chosen, and while the exact cohort size may vary, it is committed to providing participants with unprecedented resources from corporate partners. The accelerator also nurtures startups in the broader fintech and general tech sectors, demonstrating a diverse industry engagement. Participants receive significant benefits, including mentorship, networking events, and access to industry experts. The program offers a standard deal of $50,000 to support the startups' development, emphasizing its investment in fostering high-growth tech ventures. Through these initiatives, the institution plays a pivotal role in attracting and retaining innovative companies within Downtown Kansas City, Missouri.

BCP Tech Accelerator's Website

This dynamic startup accelerator is designed to attract and support high-growth tech startups in Downtown Kansas City, Missouri. With an annual investment exceeding $1 million, it offers early-stage tech companies the opportunity to apply for $50,000 in funding alongside a comprehensive suite of support services. The initiative has successfully backed 102 portfolio companies, which have collectively generated 694 jobs and attracted $424 million in follow-on capital. It promotes a diverse array of tech industries, including the recent Health Accelerator, powered by Nueterra Capital, which focuses on early-stage businesses innovating in the healthcare sector. By providing crucial resources and increasing visibility, the organization helps startups validate their business models and gain access to vital capital, thereby fueling innovation and growth within Kansas City's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

LaunchKC's Website

Located at Monsanto Place in Columbia, Missouri, this life science business incubator provides exceptional entrepreneurial support through its expansive 33,000-square-foot facility. Established in 2009 and operated in collaboration with the University of Missouri, the organization features amenities such as conference rooms, private offices, wet lab facilities, shared lab environments, and open office spaces. It currently serves 19 companies, offering crucial resources for startup growth in diverse fields including medicine, veterinary medicine, agriculture, and engineering. The strategic positioning on the University of Missouri campus fosters collaboration between faculty, staff, and students, facilitating research and internship opportunities with resident companies. As a member of the NBIA Soft Landings International Incubator program, it is particularly adept at aiding non-domestic companies, providing ongoing mentoring, technology commercialization assistance, and access to state-of-the-art biomedical research facilities. Its focus spans various high-impact industries such as Agriculture Tech, Biotech, Fintech, Food and Beverage, and Healthcare Tech, making it a vital resource for entrepreneurs and innovators seeking to advance their ventures.

MU Life Science Business Incubator's Website

The Regnier Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation is dedicated to fostering entrepreneurial ventures through education, research, and comprehensive support programs. It facilitates early-stage startups, guiding them from concept to sustainable launch within a nurturing environment that emphasizes learning, experimentation, and mentorship. The institution serves as a central hub for entrepreneurial efforts, connecting the university community with external partners to enhance the startup ecosystem. It actively supports emerging ventures across various sectors including technology and healthcare. Participants benefit from access to transformational education from experienced faculty, opportunities to network with industry experts, and a safe environment for entrepreneurial experimentation. Additional perks include events featuring prominent business figures, providing entrepreneurs with essential launch support. This multifaceted approach not only nurtures individual startups but also contributes to the broader innovation landscape within the region.

University of Missouri - UMKC Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation's Website

OPO Startups, established in 2015 in Saint Charles, Missouri, is a coworking space and accelerator that provides support to startup firms through workspace, mentorship, programming, and educational training. The organization aims to foster innovation and growth within the startup ecosystem. The accelerator has actively sought new investments and made one investment thus far. It likely supports a diverse range of industries since it is sector agnostic. Randy Schilling is one of the founders. Start-ups benefit from workspace, mentorship by experienced professionals, and educational resources to enhance their skills. OPO Startups serves as a hub where entrepreneurs, remote workers, and small businesses can connect, work, and collaborate to drive their ventures forward.

OPO Startups's Website