Virginia's top accelerators and incubators handpicked for you

Powered by the National Science Foundation, this pivotal accelerator supports startups and small businesses with nearly $200 million in research and development funding annually. Since its inception in 1977, the program has consistently funded approximately 400 companies each year, stimulating innovation across diverse domains including agriculture technology, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, biotechnology, cybersecurity, education technology, environmental technology, healthcare technology, and robotics. The initiative emphasizes science and technology-driven innovations, addressing critical areas such as national security and domestic manufacturing. It provides non-dilutive funding through contracts and grants, making it an attractive option for early-stage ventures without imposing equity requirements. Furthermore, the program connects startups with vital resources and fosters partnerships to help bring groundbreaking ideas from the research phase to market. Key figures behind this initiative include Kim Alter and Vannevar Bush, underscoring its legacy and commitment to advancing entrepreneurial ventures in the United States.

America's Seed Fund's Website

Founded in 2003 and based in McLean, Virginia, this prominent accelerator and investor focuses on early-stage companies, primarily within the information technology sector. Since its inception, it has made 54 investments in various companies, notably including Getaround, Secret Escapes, Kano, Astley Clarke, Skimlinks, and Wise. The firm has achieved 36 exits, with notable mentions such as Citymapper and Getaround, showcasing its proficiency in nurturing startups towards success. Specializing in industries such as ecommerce, fintech, food and beverage, general tech, SaaS, and travel and tourism, the organization is led by founder Upendra Shardanand. Its diverse portfolio and successful exit strategy reflect a commitment to fostering innovation and driving growth in the technology landscape.

The Acceleration Group's Website

MACH37 is the premier accelerator for entrepreneurs and startups focused on addressing critical cybersecurity challenges. Regarded as 'The Grandaddy of Cybersecurity Accelerators,' it stands out as the first publicly funded accelerator in Virginia to evolve into a self-sustaining business serving a global network of startups, investors, and technical ecosystems. The name symbolizes 'escape velocity,' representing the minimum speed needed to break free from Earth's gravitational pull. The program spans 90 days and has successfully launched 85 cyber companies, with 83% of these startups remaining operational. It offers a robust network of over 400 mentors, comprising current and former government leaders, industry executives, and seasoned entrepreneurs. Graduates have raised an average seed round of $1 million, with 64% securing follow-on investments. The accelerator emphasizes enhancing startups' product-market fit through comprehensive customer discovery and market research, providing them with vital access to investment capital and a ready customer base. Located in the 'Cyber Security Capital of the World,' it serves as a strategic hub for connections to federal agencies, cybersecurity firms, and venture capital, making it a significant asset for burgeoning cybersecurity companies seeking rapid growth.

MACH37's Website

This long-format accelerator is dedicated to supporting select, technology-driven, early-stage startups based in Central Virginia. The program spans at least nine months and provides $20,000 in grant funding, dedicated workspace, and access to experienced founders-in-residence who offer hands-on guidance. Participants engage in monthly programming, including workshops and networking opportunities, and benefit from a large network of industry experts along with over $50,000 in resources. Since its inception, the organization has provided over $400,000 in grant funding to 22 startups led by nearly 50 founders, resulting in the creation of over 115 jobs and raising more than $25,000,000 in capital and grantsan impressive return of over 60 times the grant support received. The initiative is backed by the City of Charlottesville, the County of Albemarle, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and private foundations, operating out of Venture Central. While the specific specialization domains vary, the accelerator focuses on tech-oriented startups across industries such as biotechnology and general technology, playing a pivotal role in enhancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem and community impact in the region.

434's Website

This premier venture builder and accelerator has been transforming federal R&D into commercial success since its inception in 2013 as part of the DC I-Corps program. By collaborating with founders of advanced technology and leveraging partnerships with the Department of Defense (DoD), NASA, the Department of Energy (DOE), and Fortune 500 companies, the organization facilitates the commercialization of government technologies. They offer a range of specialized programs, including the Forge NSIN, KIC-FedTech, TABA Program, xTechGlobal AI Challenge, DredgeTech, and xTechHBCU Accelerators, targeting key domains such as deep tech, defense technologies, and aeronautics. Their specialization spans various industries, including Clean Energy, Environmental Tech, and Space Tech. With a robust network of over 45 federal lab partners and universities, essential resources such as one-on-one mentoring, entrepreneurial training, and opportunities for startups to showcase their innovations during pitch days are provided. Founded by Ben Solomon, the institution plays a vital role in bridging the gap between innovative entrepreneurs and mission-driven organizations, ensuring that cutting-edge federal technologies reach the market efficiently.

FedTech's Website

The business accelerator, founded in 2017 with support from GO Virginia, the City of Roanoke, and Virginia Western Community College, specializes in assisting STEM-based startups, particularly in technology, health, and life sciences sectors. It features three levels of acceleration: 'On RAMP' for early-stage entrepreneurs, a robust 12-week 'In Residence' cohort that offers expert mentoring, office space, and investor access, and an 'Exit RAMP' for continued support post-acceleration. Since its inception, the organization has accelerated 52 tech companies, with 80% remaining active and collectively raising $28 million in funding. It provides $20,000 in equity-free funding along with comprehensive benefits, which include memberships to industry organizations such as the Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council and Virginia Bio. Recognized as an effective platform for fostering high-growth potential businesses in the region, the accelerator's Fall 2023 cohort highlighted its impact, with 46% of U.S. startups securing pre-accelerator equity. With expert resources and a commitment to nurturing innovation, it plays a crucial role in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Regional Accelerator & Mentoring Program's Website

The Apex Center for Entrepreneurs at Virginia Tech is a dynamic hub that combines research, teaching, and practical support for startups and established companies in industries such as Edtech and General Tech. Founded by Jeffrey H. Reed, Russell Jones, Tyler Campbell, and Yuan Lin, the center focuses on fostering entrepreneurship, research, and teaching. Their research activities enable businesses to make informed decisions, accelerate growth, and drive innovation in various sectors. The center's impact goes beyond numbers as it contributes to thought leadership and business success preparation. It likely supports a wide range of industries, including technology and engineering, leveraging valuable resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Participants benefit from faculty expertise, collaborative research, and a supportive ecosystem, positioning them for success in the ever-evolving entrepreneurial landscape.

Apex Center for Entrepreneurs's Website

The only coastal resilience innovation hub of its kind in the United States is dedicated to connecting businesses with coastal communities to develop practical solutions for the urgent challenges posed by sea level rise and coastal flooding. This accelerator addresses a wide range of critical issues, including affordable housing, healthcare accessibility, economic stability, and environmental resilience. The organization hosts the Community Resilience Challenge, focusing on fostering innovative solutions to protect vulnerable communities. Participants in the program benefit from a two-month accelerator experience, utilizing the National Science Foundations I-Corps techniques tailored for the resilience sector. Specialization domains include clean energy, food security, healthcare technology, and renewable energy. Although specific metrics regarding the number of startups or investors are not disclosed, the initiative cultivates a living laboratory environment in coastal Virginia, offering startups invaluable real-world insights for refining their next-generation products. Through collaboration and innovative thinking, it enhances the well-being of communities facing environmental challenges, exemplifying a commitment to creating impactful resilience solutions.

Rise Resilience Innovation's Website

757 Accelerate is a premier 12-week accelerator program located in Assembly, Hampton Roads. The program aims to connect business founders with mentors, investors, and customers, providing personalized feedback and unique resource recommendations. Participants receive $20,000 in seed capital without giving up equity. The accelerator is open to founders from various sectors, focusing on inclusivity by removing barriers for historically underrepresented founders. Throughout the 13-week program, founders have access to experienced mentors, in-person pitch events with accredited investors, subject matter experts, conducive workspace, and networking opportunities. The accelerator has hosted multiple cohorts, contributing to job creation and fostering workplace diversity in the 757 area. It emphasizes a supportive ecosystem to accelerate startup growth and success for promising founders. Notable features include a specialization in sector-agnostic industries and impactful support for participants.

757 Accelerate's Website

An investment fund and incubator dedicated to advancing Republican campaign technology, founded by Eric Wilson, focuses on supporting early-stage companies that provide innovative solutions for securing electoral victories. During the 20192020 election cycle, six startups successfully completed the 12-week accelerator program, collectively receiving investments totaling $150,000. These portfolio companies have collaborated with numerous candidates, caucuses, state parties, and PACs across 26 states, significantly impacting Republican electoral strategies. The accelerator specializes in three primary domains: voter contact, offering tools to engage and activate supporters; campaign management, delivering Vertical Software as a Service (SaaS) tailored for political professionals to streamline operations; and data integration, ensuring data-driven decisions by breaking down information silos within campaigns and political organizations. Additionally, they provide entrepreneurs and portfolio companies with valuable access to a network of early adopters, decision-makers, operatives, technologists, and consultants, enhancing their potential for success in the competitive political landscape.

Startup Caucus's Website

Hatch Accelerator serves as a global catalyst for a sustainable transition in the (sea)food industry, focusing predominantly on aquaculture and alternative seafood. This entrepreneurship and innovation business farm supports startups by fostering innovation and offering essential resources to (sea)food entrepreneurs worldwide. The current program, Hatch Accelerator 5.0, runs from June 26 to September 28. It is well-regarded for its commitment to driving positive change in sustainable aquatic food production methods such as fish farming and shellfish cultivation. Located at Liberty St 7/8, Cork, Ireland, the organization provides a conducive environment for mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to industry experts. The accelerator aims to empower businesses in the sector by instilling entrepreneurial spirit and innovative thinking, encouraging sustainable practices for the benefit of future generations.

Hatch Accelerator's Website

The institution is dedicated to supporting high-tech entrepreneurs and small businesses focused on advancing a net-zero carbon economy. Its Accelerate program serves as a virtual accelerator that empowers clean energy startups by connecting them with major utility customers and potential corporate investors. This 11-week program, conducted annually from September to November, selects 6 to 8 companies to participate each cycle. Since its inception, the initiative has supported 32 companies across four cohorts, collectively raising $278 million in capital and fostering the creation of 770 jobs. The program specializes in various domains, including power generation, energy storage, grid resilience, transmission and distribution, data centers, and smart grid technologies. Each participating company is paired with a dedicated mentor from Dominion Energy, ensuring tailored guidance. Importantly, startups retain full ownership and control, as the organization does not take an equity stake or claim intellectual property rights. Through its commitment, the program contributes significantly to driving utility-scale innovation within the clean and renewable energy sectors.

Dominion Resources Innovation Center's Website

Startup Virginia is a nonprofit high-growth business incubator and entrepreneurial hub based in Richmond, Virginia. Their mission is to transform potential into progress within the startup ecosystem by supporting and scaling forward-thinking businesses that positively impact innovation in Central Virginia and beyond. They have successfully incubated a total of 234 startups, providing over 16,692 hours of mentoring to founders and offering $1.35 million in scholarships to support entrepreneurs. The startups associated with Startup Virginia have collectively generated $316 million in economic impact, with notable metrics including $406 million in revenue earned and $272 million in capital raised. While their specialization domains are not explicitly mentioned, Startup Virginia supports startups across various industries, likely including technology, consumer goods, and services. In addition to offering a dynamic workspace for collaboration and growth, they provide a supportive community where entrepreneurs can connect, along with regular events, workshops, and programs to foster learning and networking. Startup Virginia aims to elevate Richmond's presence in the tech world, driving the success of the next generation of innovative entrepreneurs.

Startup Virginia's Website

The George Mason University - Mason Enterprise Center is a community-focused business accelerator supported by the university, aiming to assist businesses and startups in their growth and success. The accelerator offers mentoring, business training, and flexible space at 4031 University Dr Ste 100, Fairfax, VA, 22030. It provides specialized services to help businesses engage in government contracts and procurement opportunities at federal, state, and local levels. The accelerator operates with ongoing services like counseling, training, and bid match assistance. Additional benefits include flexible workspace options, free counseling services for Virginia-based businesses, educational seminars and webinars, and a Bid Match Service. Despite not specifying particular domains, it focuses on supporting a wide range of businesses, including startups and entrepreneurs. The George Mason University - Mason Enterprise Center stands out for its dedication to aiding businesses in accessing government procurement opportunities, making it a valuable resource for entrepreneurs.

George Mason University - Mason Enterprise Center's Website

The Accelerator program is designed specifically for first-stage entrepreneurs seeking to elevate their businesses. Its mission is to empower these entrepreneurs with the tools, accountability, and community needed for aggressive growth and mastery over their businesses. Candidates must be the owners or founders of operating businesses with gross yearly revenues between US$250,000 and US$1 million and are required to complete an application and interview process. The program is offered in over 50 cities globally, with a maximum of 30 participants per location, featuring structured educational content focusing on key areas such as marketing, finance, operations, and leadership. Tuition for the program is US$1,750 per participant, excluding local fees. Participants benefit from extensive networking opportunities with influential entrepreneurs, mentorship, and access to best practices in business. The initiative aims to help entrepreneurs surpass the US$1 million sales mark, enhance their leadership skills, and achieve sustainable growth. Notable founders include Arno Schäfer, Cem Erdem, Habil Ahmed Khan, Ignacio Carcavallo, Kevin Harrington, Khalifa Saleh Al Haroon, and Verne Harnish.

Entrepreneurs Organization Accelerator's Website

This award-winning digital agency, venture building studio, and hyper-learning community is located in the Washington, DC metro area. The accelerator program spans three months and caters to early-stage startups across various industries, including General Tech and Mobile Apps. It focuses on corporate innovation, partnering with corporations to drive innovation and cultural transformation while fostering long-term relationships. Startups receive hands-on assistance, expert guidance, and benefit from a supportive community throughout the program. Corporate mentors collaborate closely with founders to tackle industry-specific challenges. The accelerator culminates in a Demo Day, allowing participants to showcase their accomplishments to investors. Post-program engagement continues with opportunities in mergers and acquisitions, investments, and ongoing mentorship. The organization operates a hybrid model that combines online and in-person support for startup launches, and has recently expanded into a larger facility in Rosslyn through partnerships with American Real Estate Partners, the Rosslyn Business Improvement District, and Arlington Economic Development. The founders, Ibrahem Alhaidari and Wa'il Ashshowwaf, have established a strong reputation within the startup ecosystem.

Unstuck Labs's Website

This accelerator program is designed to support emerging startups with a vision to improve humanity's outlook. It focuses on three key domains: Global Preservation, enhancing human experience, and sustainable business practices. The emphasis on planet tech targets solutions for environmental sustainability and climate resilience. Offering a structured 12-week program, participants engage in a flexible self-paced incubation phase followed by an intensive six-week acceleration phase. Startups can apply through the platform F6s, with 16 accepted per cohort. They benefit from mentorship by experienced industry experts, networking opportunities, and pro-bono support, including legal and strategic advice. The accelerator also features a dedicated Funding Week and capital introductions to connect startups with potential investors. Under the leadership of CEO Amu Fowler, it fosters a global community of founders engaged in networking events and workshops, providing access to essential resources for growth and brand exposure. Alumni gain agency and innovative systems for driving significant change across various industries, including Artificial Intelligence, Edtech, Environmental Tech, Fintech, Healthcare Tech, Personal Finance, and SaaS.

Startups Ignite's Website

This premier advisory firm focuses on dual-use technologies that serve both commercial and national security applications. It possesses unparalleled insight into national security needs across the U.S. Departments of Defense, the Intelligence Community, and other federal entities. The leadership team comprises seasoned professionals with a combined 47 years of military experience, specializing in defense and intelligence innovation. With a track record of advising over 200 technology companies and securing more than $300 million in federal funds for clients, they strategically identify high-potential startups through diverse channels, including venture capital referrals and proprietary AI-driven databases. By leveraging federal innovation programs, the organization facilitates paid dual-use engagements, helping clients navigate and secure large-scale enterprise contracts. This unique approach enhances the commercial viability of cutting-edge technologies and maximizes the impact of government funding in addressing both defense and commercial needs. Operating in industries such as Artificial Intelligence and General Tech, it positions itself at the intersection of technology and national security.

Victoria Falls Technology's Website

Topspin Labs is a premier spinoff business incubator located in Northern Virginia, specializing in supporting growing companies that have developed proven technologies for new market opportunities. The accelerator adopts a unique 'Turnkey Startup' approach that enables partner companies to focus on their core business while a capable management team incubates and launches new ventures. This method effectively addresses the challenge faced by many businesses: the development of innovative technologies that may not align with their primary competencies. By providing a secure environment for innovation, it safeguards parent companies from the distractions associated with new startups, allowing them to concentrate on their main operations. Founded by Mike Keymer, the institution positions itself within the technology sector. Overall, it plays a critical role in fostering innovation and growth within the tech landscape, helping companies unlock the potential of their overlooked technologies.

Topspin Labs's Website

The accelerator program based in Arlington, Virginia, is designed to collaborate with startup companies through mentoring and funding. This initiative enriches the vibrant urban community of Ballston, a technology, education, and nightlife hub near Washington D.C. It has successfully made three investments in startups, including Actionfigure, Carsquare, and BuilDatAnalytics, spanning domains such as media and information services, information services, and database software. Notably, there was an exit with Carsquare on January 1, 2023, through a private secondary transaction. BuilDatAnalytics also had a successful exit, although specific details are not disclosed. Tina Leone serves as the Chief Executive Officer, overseeing the program's impact on the community and startups. While specific specialization domains within the accelerator are not prominently mentioned, it operates within the realms of general tech, real estate tech, and SaaS (Software as a Service). Through its activities, the organization aims to enhance the Ballston area via community engagement, property improvement, and dynamic events, fostering an innovative ecosystem for emerging businesses.

BallstonBID LaunchPad's Website

The National Security Innovation Network (NSIN) connects innovators from defense, academic, and entrepreneurial ventures to tackle national security challenges innovatively. NSIN offers multiple accelerator programs to support dual-use technology startups in partnership with top research universities. The Emerge Accelerator, a 12-week program, focuses on ventures based on university intellectual property aligned with the Department of Defense's urgent technology areas like AI/ML, deep tech, autonomy, and cybersecurity. While the program recruits at least 15 ventures initially, some startups receive non-dilutive funding and benefit from access to advisors and partners from the DoD and private industry. Propel, a three-to-four-month accelerator, facilitates 10-12 dual-use ventures in developing solutions for DoD challenges, offering targeted services and mentorship. Additionally, the Defense Innovation Accelerator, in collaboration with FedTech, harnesses breakthrough technology from top Defense Department labs to address real-world problems. NSIN's mission is to serve the national security community with adaptive problem-solving networks. Key industries involved include Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity.

National Security Innovation Network's Website

Last updated date 4/5/2024

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