Oregon's top accelerators and incubators handpicked for you
Learn from Oregon's foremost start-up experts who know the ins and outs of scaling start-ups.
Choosing The Right Accelerator
Start-ups are hard. Choose an accelerator that guides you in the right direction.
![Patrick Collison, Founder of Stripe](/_next/static/media/patrick.bb2651b2.webp)
"I doubt that Stripe would have worked without YC. It's that simple."
Patrick Collison, Founder, Stripe
![Chris Lynch, Founder of Atlas Venture](/_next/static/media/chris.120bf0ab.webp)
"Accelerators claim they are in it for the long haul — I call bullshit"
Chris Lynch, Founder, Atlas Venture
![Raj Aggarwal, Founder of Localytics](/_next/static/media/raj.af76f385.webp)
"The network we built with Techstars was incredibly valuable during and after the program."
Raj Aggarwal, Founder, Localytics
What truly matters
Accelerator’s connections in the industry
Do the alumni rate them truly well?
Accelerator’s brand power
Figuring what’s in it for you
Discover your perfect match
No accelerator or incubator is perfect for every start-up. Your business’s context and constraints matter. Identify your perfect match by answering this short questionnaire.
Oregon's Top Accelerators By Neighborhoods
Comparing Accelerators
This page covers the top accelerators and incubators in Oregon.
However if geography isn’t a hard constraint, and you are only looking for the best incubators and accelerators across the US, check here.
Brief Overview Of Different Accelerators
1) The Roux Institute Techstars Accelerator
![The Roux Institute Techstars Accelerator - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in Oregon](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.techstars.com.accelerators.cities.of.the.future.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Located in Portland, Maine, this immersive three-month program is designed to support early-stage companies at the intersection of humans and machines, particularly in the fields of Artificial Intelligence, Life Sciences and Health, and Data and Analytics. It prioritizes fundamental transformations across industries, equipping startups with essential resources, mentorship, and a vast network of over 7,100 program mentors and corporate partners. With a focus on growth, participants engage in intensive mentorship to refine business models and prepare for the investment landscape. Since its inaugural cohort in 2021, which included 10 startups, the accelerator has continued to bolster the entrepreneurial ecosystem, exemplified by the Maine Venture Fund's commitment to invest up to $750,000 in graduating startups over three years. Graduates of the program have demonstrated impressive outcomes, with an average first raise of $1.0M post-program and 19 graduate unicorns contributing to a cumulative market cap of $71B. This initiative not only fosters individual startup success but also aims to enhance the regional economy by driving innovation and collaboration.
2) Starveups
![Starveups - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.starveups.com.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Starve Ups, Oregon's first and only scalerator, operates as the state's premier startup accelerator with chapters in Portland, Eugene, and Bend. Founded by a group of founders from seven Oregon-based startup companies, the accelerator stands out as an end-to-end program. It is a tight-knit community consisting of startup founders and their membership companies. Starve Ups guides founders through the entire startup journey, divided into the Survive (18-36 months), Strive (years 3-7), and Thrive (years 7-12) stages, offering support in various aspects such as corporate structure, fundraising, marketing, sales processes, and exit strategies. With notable metrics like $582.5M in Capital Raised, 3 IPOs, and 35 exits totaling over $1.42B, Starve Ups has supported 222 companies across 20 industries through 23 classes, facilitated by 357 peer mentors. Not requiring equity or charging fees, the accelerator provides invaluable benefits like peer mentoring, networking opportunities, strategic partnerships, direct investment options, and access to essential startup resources. Founded by Nathan Gustafson, Starve Ups caters to a sector-agnostic portfolio of startups, offering a holistic approach to guide founders towards building successful and impactful businesses.
3) Starve Ups
![Starve Ups - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.starveups.com.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Located in Oregon, this innovative startup accelerator and scalerator has active chapters in Portland, Eugene, and Bend. Founded by a select group of seven local startup founders, it emphasizes comprehensive assistance across all stages of the startup lifecycle, categorized as Survive, Strive, and Thrive. The organization has successfully raised over $582.5 million for member companies, resulting in three IPOs and 35 exits that generated more than $1.42 billion in shareholder value. To date, more than 23 classes have been conducted, with 222 member companies spanning 20 industries including technology, healthcare tech, eCommerce, and food and beverage. With a robust network of 357 peer mentors, daily support and guidance are offered to founders without taking any equity or charging fees. Additionally, access to strategic partnerships, investment sources, and vital startup resources like legal advice and marketing strategies are provided. Nathan Gustafson stands out as a prominent figure within the institution, reinforcing its significance in Oregon's vibrant startup ecosystem.
4) Portland Incubator Experiment
![Portland Incubator Experiment - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in Oregon](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.piepdx.com.webp&w=3840&q=75)
An initiative in Portland, Oregon, designed to enhance collaboration between established organizationssuch as corporations, government entities, and educational institutionsand the startup community. It acts as a community development and ecosystem-building program, providing startups with coworking spaces, a community hub, and accelerator services. The focus is on addressing the specific needs of founders, particularly first-time entrepreneurs, by offering personalized mentorship and access to networks, all at no cost and without taking equity. The accelerator includes specialized programs: a SaaS & Mobile program for scaling software businesses, a Manufacturing program called 'PIE Shop' for hardware projects, and the Built Accelerator, targeting growth-stage consumer product companies. Founders benefit from discounted and free services, which help demystify the startup process. Key figures in the organization include Jason Glaspey, Renny Gleeson, Rick Turoczy, and Scott Kveton. This innovative approach fosters an environment of growth and collaboration, as it continually supports startups in various sectors including mobile applications and SaaS.
5) OSU Advantage Accelerator
![OSU Advantage Accelerator - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in Oregon](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fadvantage.oregonstate.edu.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Oregon State University is home to the OSU Advantage Accelerator, a program established in 2013 to nurture high-growth, innovative products and services by assisting faculty, staff, students, and the community in commercializing research and ideas. The accelerator operates with a three-program approach - Iterate Your Idea for early-stage concepts, Accelerate Your Growth for scaling up, and Launch Your Company for new ventures and growth strategies. While the program collaborates with startups from various industries such as Edtech and General Tech, specific domains are not explicitly mentioned. The accelerator is known for its support from idea inception to market launch, although precise metrics on associated startups, investors, and funded ventures are not disclosed. Noteworthy benefits include being an NSF Innovation Corps (I-Corps) Site, offering I-Corps Grants for technology commercialization, and participating in the NSF I-Corps National Program providing support for tech-based teams. Steve Clark is among the founders associated with the accelerator, which embodies Oregon State University's dedication to fostering innovation, supporting startups, and driving economic growth in a collaborative and inclusive community.
6) Oregon State University - Austin Entrepreneurship Program
![Oregon State University - Austin Entrepreneurship Program - supporting Oregon's best founders](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fbusiness.oregonstate.edu.programs.aep.webp&w=3840&q=75)
The OSU Advantage Accelerator was established in 2013 to enhance the regional Innovation and Entrepreneurship ecosystem in Corvallis, Oregon. This accelerator supports startups at all stages, from initial idea exploration to comprehensive commercialization strategies. It utilizes a unique three-program approach: 'Iterate Your Idea' aids innovators in market exploration and product development; 'Accelerate Your Growth' is a nine-week initiative for community members and OSU affiliates focused on developing a minimal viable product; and 'Launch Your Company' guides entrepreneurs through all phases of the startup process with hands-on support from staff, mentors, and interns. It actively contributes to fostering high-growth, innovative ventures across various fields including Edtech and General Tech. The program is also recognized as a National Science Foundation Innovation Corps Site, participating in initiatives that facilitate the commercialization of university-derived technologies and offer grants for customer discovery and business model validation. Steven Clark leads the program, reinforcing its commitment to empowering startup success and regional entrepreneurship.
7) Portland State University Business Accelerator
![Portland State University Business Accelerator - Oregon's true entrepreneurial hub](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.pdx.edu.accelerator.webp&w=3840&q=75)
This premier initiative supports tech, bioscience, and green companies from early stages to growth. With a focus on industries such as biotech, edtech, general tech, and renewable energy, it provides vital resources including access to private and co-working office spaces, as well as specialized facilities like wet labs and prototyping shops. Under the leadership of founder Stephen Edward Epler, the organization connects startups with a strong network of mentors and investors, facilitating the fast-tracking of game-changing innovations into the market. Additionally, participating companies benefit from connectivity with the research, students, and wider community of Portland State University, enhancing their potential for success in a competitive landscape.
8) University of Oregon - Lundquist Center for Entrepreneurship
![University of Oregon - Lundquist Center for Entrepreneurship - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Flcb.uoregon.edu.App_Aspx.LceHome.aspx.webp&w=3840&q=75)
The Lundquist Center for Entrepreneurship serves as a cornerstone for innovation and entrepreneurial education since its establishment in 1989. Its mission focuses on fostering collaborative student innovation through practical hands-on learning opportunities, effectively cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset among students across various disciplines. The center acts as a vital node within the university's innovation ecosystem, bridging students with local communities and industry resources. Notable startups that have emerged from this accelerator include Orchid Health, a primary healthcare provider for rural areas, Product Hunt, a platform for discovering new technology products, and Science Inc., a venture capital firm investing in burgeoning startups. It features structured programs such as the Oregon Innovation Challenge, allowing students to submit projects, participate in workshops, and receive mentorship, culminating in potential funding opportunities of up to $10,000. The organization emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, welcoming students from diverse majors while providing access to a robust network of mentors and alumni, enriching the entrepreneurial landscape through guest lectures, business plan competitions, and collaborations with faculty on research commercialization. This positioning creates a dynamic environment for aspiring entrepreneurs.
9) University of Portland - Center for Entrepreneurship
![University of Portland - Center for Entrepreneurship - supporting Oregon's best founders](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.up.edu.cfe.webp&w=3840&q=75)
The Center for Entrepreneurship offers a robust platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to develop and launch innovative ventures. It emphasizes experiential learning within a values-based framework that highlights integrity, risk-taking, and opportunity recognition. Several key initiatives are run by the institution, including the Entrepreneur Scholars Program, which brings together a competitive group of undergraduate students from different disciplines to create business ventures and social enterprises. Additionally, the Pilots Venture Challenge serves as a premier competition that focuses on student-driven entrepreneurship in various domains, fostering a culture of innovation. Collaboration is a core aspect, as students, alumni, faculty, and industry practitioners work together to explore business centers across the United States and abroad. This networking with experts allows for practical experience that is essential for success in the field. The organization aligns with the university's commitment to nurturing innovation and leadership, particularly in the Edtech industry. Through these programs, students are not only prepared to launch ventures but also to embrace a collaborative, integrity-driven entrepreneurial spirit.
10) ONABEN
![ONABEN - a prominent start-up growth supporter in Oregon](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.onaben.org.webp&w=3840&q=75)
ONABEN is a non-profit corporation founded by NW Tribes to enhance the success of Native women artisans by offering culturally appropriate training and support to accelerate the growth of Native-owned businesses. The organization primarily focuses on assisting Native women artisans in developing their entrepreneurial skills and expanding their audience. ONABEN collaborates with tribes such as the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation, aiming to create economic opportunities for Warm Springs Indian Reservation artists. The organization's program aims to provide educational opportunities for aspiring Native artists while increasing knowledge and appreciation of tribal arts and crafts of the Columbia River Plateau. Specific details such as the number of associated startups, investors, funded startups, and program duration are not disclosed in the available information. The industries targeted by ONABEN are sector-agnostic.
11) Oregon Story Board
![Oregon Story Board - accelerating exceptional start-ups in Oregon](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.oregonstoryboard.org.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Oregon Story Board is a non-profit accelerator founded in 2013 with a mission to advance the digital storytelling industry in Oregon. The accelerator program and co-working space support early-stage companies in film & video, digital media, animation, content, and gaming industries. It focuses on nurturing startups involved in digital storytelling, including creative and interactive media such as film, animation, and virtual reality (VR). The accelerator announced its inaugural class in 2014, consisting of five companies. While specific metrics are not available, Oregon Story Board offers valuable perks like mentorship, a collaborative workspace, workshops, and networking events. It fosters a community that connects startups with mentors and potential collaborators. Key people involved include amazing mentors from diverse backgrounds. Oregon Story Board has a significant impact on industries like Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR), entertainment, and gaming, contributing to the growth and vibrancy of Oregon's digital storytelling ecosystem.
12) TargetPath
![TargetPath - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.targetpath.com.webp&w=3840&q=75)
TargetPath is a leading business management consultancy firm and accelerator dedicated to driving accelerated growth and revenue for startups and established brands. The organization specializes in a range of services including the development of launch plans, brand concepts, sales channels, and supply chains for innovative new brands. Established companies benefit from its expertise in entering new markets and product categories efficiently. The firm operates on a flexible 'pay-as-you-go' model, offering on-demand expert capabilities in sourcing, operations, and marketing. Primarily working with technology companies, it focuses on business strategy, go-to-market planning, and operational execution. Founded by industry leaders Brad Gleeson and Scott Hix, the consultancy has a notable track record of assisting companies in diverse sectors, including Fintech, General Tech, and SaaS. By delivering tailored business strategy solutions, the organization optimizes operations and drives significant growth for its clients.
13) Oregon Technology Business Center
![Oregon Technology Business Center - a prominent start-up growth supporter in Oregon](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fotbc.org.webp&w=3840&q=75)
A non-profit tech startup incubator located in Beaverton, Oregon, it focuses on assisting entrepreneurs at various stages of their journey, providing essential resources for validating markets, developing strategies, securing funding, and managing growth. They offer a range of services, including mentoring, flexible office space, workshops, and networking opportunities, fostering an environment of collaboration among startups and small businesses. This community-oriented approach allows companies to support each other with advice and contacts while benefiting from an extensive network that includes potential partners, board members, founders, and investors. Serving a diverse array of sectors, the organization specializes in technology, consumer products, manufacturing, bioscience, travel services, and food production. It emphasizes personalized support and community building, allowing entrepreneurs to engage throughout their journey, reaping benefits from mentorship, skill-building workshops, and networking access. Ultimately, it acts as a supportive ecosystem that empowers startups to thrive in their entrepreneurial endeavors.
14) OTRADI Bioscience Incubator
![OTRADI Bioscience Incubator - a prominent start-up growth supporter in Oregon](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.otradi.org.webp&w=3840&q=75)
The Oregon Translational Research and Development Institute (OTRADI) initiated OTRADI Bioscience Incubator (OBI) in 2007 to translate scientific research from Oregon's laboratories into commercial ventures, focusing on biotech and healthcare tech. OBI, Oregon's sole bioscience-focused incubator, operates a 29,000 square foot complex on Portland's South Waterfront, offering entrepreneurial mentoring, cutting-edge bioscience facilities, event space, and shared equipment. Positioned near Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), OBI serves as a hub for bioscience entrepreneurs and emerging companies, fostering collaboration with academic researchers and clinicians. Specializing in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, diagnostics, and life sciences, OBI provides a collaborative environment to nurture start-ups. OBI's impact lies in bridging the gap between research and commercialization, driving bioscience innovation in Oregon.
15) VertueLab
![VertueLab - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.vertuelab.org.webp&w=3840&q=75)
This prominent nonprofit accelerator, based in the Pacific Northwest, specializes in climate tech and cleantech innovations. It accelerates and funds early-stage clean tech startups through two primary programs: the Cascadia CleanTech Accelerator and 45Camp. These programs provide crucial mentorship, structured curriculum, valuable connections, and funding opportunities to founders, fostering supportive communities throughout the lifecycle of startups. With a track record of creating over 690 jobs and funding more than 80 companies, these ventures have collectively secured over $600 million in follow-on funding. The institution has invested over $9.5 million into climate tech ventures and also engages in national competitions, earning recognition such as a $50,000 award from the U.S. Small Business Administration's Growth Accelerator Fund Competition for its commitment to equitable access to entrepreneurship. Its portfolio includes startups in diverse industries such as Agriculture Tech, Environmental Tech, and Renewable Energy, all dedicated to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and addressing urgent environmental challenges.
16) Oregon Entrepreneurs Network
![Oregon Entrepreneurs Network - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.oen.org.webp&w=3840&q=75)
This nonprofit organization supports scalable startups across all industries in Oregon. Committed to fostering innovation, it connects entrepreneurs with essential resources, mentors, and funding opportunities. With a place-based model, the institution leverages Oregon's unique strengths to provide access to capital, expertise, and technical assistance. As of February 2023, they have assisted 2,227 entrepreneurs, leading to the creation of 795 jobs and the graduation of 401 startups from accelerator programs. These startups collectively generated $37.1 million in revenue and raised $28.4 million in capital, with an additional $43.7 million needed to further support their growth. Their diverse focus spans industries like technology and healthcare, promoting an inclusive culture that welcomes entrepreneurs from all backgrounds. The organization emphasizes community engagement by tailoring its programming to local needs and collaborates with the Regional Accelerator & Innovation Network (RAIN) to reduce barriers for underrepresented populations. By connecting startups with investors, mentors, and business partners, it plays a vital role in strengthening Oregon's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
17) EO Portland
![EO Portland - accelerating exceptional start-ups in Oregon](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.eonetwork.org.portland.webp&w=3840&q=75)
The EO Portland Accelerator Program is a premier initiative aimed at entrepreneurs generating over $250,000 in annual turnover, focusing on accelerating their growth to exceed $1 million in sales. It is part of the global Entrepreneurs Organization, which boasts a network of over 14,000 leaders across 61 countries. This program empowers participants with essential tools, structured accountability, and community support through quarterly learning days based on Verne Harnish's *Scaling Up* principles. Entrepreneurs engage in monthly accountability groups, benefiting from insights shared by experienced speakers during exclusive events. Approximately 30 individuals are selected each year to participate in this comprehensive program, which entails an annual tuition of $2,500 and a one-time initiation fee of $500. The institution caters to a diverse range of industries, including Edtech and General Tech, featuring notable founders like Arno Schäfer and Verne Harnish. It provides invaluable networking opportunities, connecting ambitious entrepreneurs with top-tier professionals in the Portland area while fostering an environment for shared learning and growth.
18) Xcelerate Women
![Xcelerate Women - supporting founders in their growth journey](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.xceleratewomen.org.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Xcelerate Women is a transformative community dedicated to building economic power for women business owners in Oregon. They aim to create a more inclusive and sustainable definition of success in business by offering gender and culturally competent resources. In 2023, the organization provided direct services to 181 women and gender expansive owned businesses, generating $26.9M in gross revenues and employing 537 Oregonians. The accelerator offers navigation services, business advising, peer mentorship, and growth education to support business owners. Specializing in assisting historically marginalized entrepreneurs, with a focus on women and individuals affected by gender bias, Xcelerate Women is run by women owners who value equal access, agency, and authenticity. The organization also celebrates and supports Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Black-owned businesses. Founded by Mara Zepeda, Xcelerate Women offers a holistic approach to business growth, emphasizing community support and empowerment for women entrepreneurs to thrive.
19) Pan Crypto
![Pan Crypto - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fpancryptolabs.com.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Located in Portland, Oregon, this full-stack Web3 marketing accelerator, tech incubator, and media house was founded in 2022 by CEO Hector Ferran. The institution is dedicated to supporting Web3 innovators and visionaries in their projects. By leveraging the expertise of a global team, which includes talent from countries like Nigeria and Spain, it empowers startups through comprehensive marketing strategies and technical support across various domains, including blockchain, cryptocurrency, and fintech. The organization provides a nurturing environment for early-stage projects, offering critical visibility and exposure as a media house. While details regarding the number of associated startups and investors are not disclosed, there is active engagement with the Web3 community to foster growth and development. With a mission to unlock limitless potential, the incubator facilitates the journey of entrepreneurs in the evolving landscape of Web3 technologies, ensuring that every opportunity for success is explored.
20) C2M
![C2M - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fwww.c2musa.com.webp&w=3840&q=75)
The Beta Accelerator is dedicated to connecting people and technology by fostering collaboration between start-ups and corporations. Their 90-day program is designed to build connections and enhance solutions for users, operating on a cohort-based model that encourages a network of like-minded entrepreneurs and mentors. The accelerator is both equity-free and fee-free, ensuring that participating companies retain full ownership and can concentrate on their business growth without financial burdens. Situated in Missoula, Montana, it accepts cohort companies from across the United States and offers co-location services at its headquarters along the scenic Clarkfork River. Furthermore, off-site training opportunities are available, allowing cohort teams to engage and benefit from the program remotely. Specializing in industries such as Clean Energy, Environmental Tech, and Renewable Energy, the organization collaborates with notable institutions like MetLife and UC Berkeley for its Cleantech to Market program. This wide-reaching support combined with a robust mentorship network positions the accelerator as an invaluable resource for innovative start-ups in the clean tech sector.
21) SPARK Scholars
![SPARK Scholars - supporting founders in their growth journey](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fraw.githubusercontent.com%2Faerialops%2Faerial-incubators-images%2Fmain%2Fscreenshots%2Fsparkscholars.com.webp&w=3840&q=75)
The accelerator program creates unique opportunities for students at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) by connecting them with cleantech start-ups. This initiative is a collaboration between multiple UTK organizations, including the Center for Materials Processing and the Spark Innovation Center at the UT Research Park, designed to bridge the gap between qualified students and emerging companies, providing a pathway to employment after graduation. It operates internships funded partly by the CMP and partly by participating companies. Starting as a pilot in summer 2022 with two undergraduates, the initiative expanded to eight students across five companies by summer 2023, with 12 interns projected for 2024. Students engage in research and development on projects in areas such as batteries, carbon capture, and micro-mobility solutions. Success stories include Sky Nano, which found an intern before her senior year and has reported significant benefits. The program not only offers hands-on experience but also enables start-ups to access a talented workforce, fostering growth in clean energy, environmental tech, and renewable energy sectors in East Tennessee.
Top Reasons Start-ups Participate In Accelerators
Holistic growth
Marketing, Sales, Tech, Ops, HR, Finance, Admin...... you can’t go wrong in any one field.
Developing business sense
Which metrics will make or break your start-up?- You can have 100k users and still fail.
Peer learning
There’s not enough time in the world to learn from one’s own mistakes. Peer learning helps.
Learning about market forces
The market seems fair from a distance. But there are certain patterns to how it operates.
Why an accelerator might not be right for you
It's usually helpful to consider potential pitfalls. Some common misconceptions
Figuring out the failure rates
Everyone can point to a few success stories. Though in general 95% of all start-ups fail. An important question is- what %ge of an accelerator's start-up survive after 3 years.
It isn't about the exits
Accelerators and investors care much more about getting a return rather than building a business. However that's not a luxury founders can afford.
What's the real value of your equity
There's a math behind how accelerators decide whether your start-up is worth investing. Did you run the calculation for diluting your equity?
FAQs About Start-up Accelerators
Author Bio
![Michael Li](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fmichael.cab50e50.webp&w=640&q=75)
Michael Li
For the last 10+ years Michael has helped start-ups of all scales and sizes succeed. A 2X entrepreneur, he is now working on Aerial to help founders avoid costly mistakes. He regularly writes for publications like the Wall Street Journal, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, Harvard Business Review and others.
Last updated date 4/5/2024
If you would like to share any feedback/suggestion to make this page better, please write to us at support@aerialops.io
Spend time on what matters: your business.
Let Aerial do the restCopyright © 2024 Aerial, Inc.Terms & ConditionsPrivacyLegal Disclaimer
Accelerators and Incubators in oregon
Looking for the best accelerators in Oregon? Here are some top reasons to choose an accelerator in the state - access to mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources to help your startup succeed. Oregon boasts a vibrant start-up culture with a strong emphasis on innovation and collaboration. Consider factors such as the accelerator's track record, industry focus, and mentor network when choosing the right accelerator for your business. Some notable start-ups from Oregon that have thrived include Vacasa, a vacation rental management platform, and Puppet, a leading provider of IT automation software. These success stories highlight the potential for growth and success that accelerators in Oregon can offer to budding entrepreneurs. Choose an accelerator in Oregon to kickstart your start-up journey today!
Powered by Crunchbase, Unsplash, Google, and others.