Accelerating startup formation and growth
Mentorship driven accelerator programs have transformed the speed with which founding teams can arrive at a viable prototype product and scalable business model. In doing so, these programs have also dramatically reduced startup capital needs and significantly increased success rates by recommending promising teams to interested investors.
UVC Supported Acceleration Programs
UVC has played a major role in organizing the StartFast Venture Accelerator--Upstate NY's first private capital backed, mentorship driven accelerator for software, Internet and mobile startups. Modeled on the highly successful TechStars program, StartFast will invest in 10 high potential startups each summer and bring hundreds of world-class mentors and investors to the region.
UVC is building a coalition of business and academic leaders in the Mohawk Valley to launch a program similar to the Syracuse Student Sandbox: a for-credit summer accelerator to identify and support entrepreneurial students. Download Mohawk Valley white paper.
UVC publicizes and promotes increased cross-region participation in Startup Weekends that are now taking place in Syracuse, Albany, and Rochester. Each event draws 100-150 people who work in teams for 57 hours to turn an idea into a prototype and a business model.
UVC promotes technology commercialization through the Pre-Seed Workshop which occur on a regular basis in Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Ithaca, Geneva, and Long Island. This 2 ½ day event brings 40-60 community-based professionals together with researchers to turn patented inventions into early stage companies. Download PSW Six Year Study.
Contact Us if you wish to participate in or organize an accelerator in your community.
