Accelerators
What are accelerators?
“The startup accelerator remains one of tech’s most popular ways to get a business up and running. But which ones are the best for new startups?”
With hundreds of programs to choose from — the most popular receive more than 5,000 applications for each class — and the average program taking 6% of equity in any hosted company, not all accelerators are created equal.”
Local Accelerators
AlphaLab provides early-stage technology companies with an extensive mentor network, educational sessions with industry leaders, and a rich entrepreneurial work environment within a nationally ranked accelerator program.
AlphaLab Gear is consistently ranked as a top-20 accelerator nationwide. They provide early-stage physical product companies with an extensive mentor network, educational sessions with industry leaders, and a rich entrepreneurial work environment.
AlphaLab Health is a healthcare and life sciences accelerator, which supports early-stage tech startups in their efforts to bring innovations to market, navigating key risk points of scientific, clinical, and commercial development. AlphaLab Health is a program of Innovation Works in collaboration with Allegheny Health Network.
Ascender is a Pittsburgh-based non-profit organization providing mentorship, programming, strategic partnerships, funding and collaborative workspace to early-stage startups across all industries and growth models.
The Blast Furnace is the Pitt student accelerator providing access to a deep mentor network, inspirational co-working space, and a rich curriculum preparing students for creating and growing their business ideas.
LifeX Labs is a life science startup accelerator focused on providing early-stage companies with the support, resources and ecosystem they need to be successful.
Idea Foundry is an accelerator program intended to help speed up the process of commercialization.
Other Pittsburgh Accelerators
BHiveLab doesn’t provide financing, but they will invest the best and brightest resources in your digital idea. That includes seasoned MBAs and brand strategists to help you with business planning and positioning. They also have the creative thinkers, designers, and developers (front end and back end) to move your idea from concept to commercialization.
SteelBridge Labs is an early-stage FinTech incubator.
Other Regional Accelerators
Learn More: Best U.S. Accelerators of 2019