Speedrun is a16z’s highly selective, in-person accelerator in San Francisco for technical founders building at the frontier of AI, games, and consumer tech. It writes real venture-scale checks up front and plugs founders into a16z’s partners, operators, and mentor network, plus millions in cloud/AI credits.
- The offer:
- $1M per company
- Location:
- San Francisco, United States
- Duration:
- 12 weeks
Why this could be a strong fit
Founders who can build fast in AI/games/consumer get a genuine $500K–$1M seed check, $8M+ in credits, and direct access to a16z’s network without giving up board control.
What you need to qualify
- Early-stage founders from any background are welcome, and founders from anywhere in the world can apply.
- The programme is 12 weeks in person in San Francisco and in-person attendance is required.
- Speedrun aims to be the first cheque into your company but also accepts early-stage companies that have already raised capital.
- Solo founders are accepted, though teams with multiple founders bringing complementary skill sets are generally preferred.
- Technical capability on the founding team is expected, and the commitment is full time, so it is not compatible with holding a full-time job or being a full-time student.
- Early signs of market validation such as prototypes or metrics are encouraged but not required.
Eligibility
- Eligible stages
- All stages
- Countries
- Global, subject to the provider’s eligibility and approval
How to apply
- 1
Start the application with your email
speedrun.a16z.com/apply asks for your email address to begin, then takes you through Terms of Use and Privacy Policy before the form itself.
- 2
Submit inside the priority window if you can
The priority application window for SR008 runs October 12 to November 1. Applications are accepted year round, but ones submitted in that window are reviewed fastest. Missing it does not disqualify you: the team rolls applications into consideration for future cohorts.
- 3
Wait for the rolling review
The team reviews applications on a rolling basis, usually within four to six weeks.
- 4
Record a video pitch or take a 15-minute interview
If the team wants to move forward you are invited to submit a brief video pitch or schedule a 15-minute interview. They may also ask for references or additional company data.
- 5
Join the cohort in San Francisco
SR008 runs from late January through April 2027 in San Francisco. Cohorts run twice a year with roughly 60 to 70 teams each.