Techstars runs a mentorship-driven, 3-month accelerator across dozens of city- and industry-specific programs worldwide, investing $220K in each company. It’s a strong fit for pre-seed to seed teams who value intensive mentorship and a specific network over a single large check.
Why this could be a strong fit
Ideal for early founders who want intensive, hands-on mentorship and a specific city or industry network, with a local Demo Day and follow-on investor introductions.
What you need to qualify
- A committed full-time founding team, ideally 2+ founders
- Early product or strong prototype; some traction preferred
- Willingness to participate in person in the chosen program city for ~3 months
- Fit with the specific program’s thesis/vertical if applying to a themed accelerator
How to apply
- 1
Choose a program
Browse open Techstars accelerators by city and industry and pick the best fit.
- 2
Submit your application
Complete the online application for that program before its deadline.
- 3
Interviews & office hours
Selected teams do interviews and mentor office hours with the managing director.
- 4
Receive an offer
Accepted companies sign the standard $220K deal terms.
- 5
Join the batch
Participate in the in-person ~13-week program ending in a Demo Day.