Deadline Date: May 17, 2026
CenterState offers startups an unparalleled opportunity to accelerate growth and innovation in the uncrewed systems, automation, and advanced air mobility space.
Focus areas include UAS and robotics technology, pre-seed and seed stage startup development, mentorship and executive guidance, access to funding and workspace, strategic partnerships, revenue and MVP validation, and integration into the Central New York ecosystem.
GENIUS NY is the world’s largest accelerator for UAS and robotics, providing participants with $3 million in investment funding, industry mentorship, executive advisors, a comprehensive UAS ecosystem, targeted programming and workshops, free office space with full amenities, and recruiting and fundraising support. One winner receives $1 million, and four additional participants secure $500,000 investments, giving startups the financial boost needed to scale quickly.
Participants gain free access to a state-of-the-art tech incubator, complete with a makerspace, hardware lab, and rooftop UAS testing facilities, fostering hands-on development and innovation. The program also connects startups to a tailored network of mentors, advisors, and industry experts to provide guidance in marketing, sales, web development, recruiting, manufacturing, and business operations.
In addition to mentorship, GENIUS NY offers extensive networking opportunities with customers, corporate partners, manufacturing resources, and service providers to help startups grow. In-house design, fundraising support, and access to Syracuse University resources ensure participants can recruit top talent, enhance marketing strategies, and secure further funding. Programs and events, including workshops, keynote speeches, pitch coaching, investor demo days, and team-building activities such as bowling or Syracuse basketball games, keep teams engaged while fostering growth.
Startups can also access the UAS Job Fund to secure grants aimed at job creation in New York, with funding dedicated to team expansion and operations. Participants benefit from $200,000 in in-kind support, which includes venture diligence preparation, manufacturing guidance, and access to platforms such as PitchBook, LivePlan, and GovSpend, as well as AWS credits and additional perks. Being part of the growing UAS ecosystem, participants collaborate with partners like NUAIR, the NY FAA Test Site, and GENIUS NY alumni, further strengthening strategic connections.
Ideal applicants are startups in uncrewed systems, automation, or advanced air mobility that are at pre-seed or seed stages, with domain expertise, a strong team, traction with paying customers, revenue or an MVP, and a compelling reason to locate in Central New York. Companies must be venture-backable, demonstrate high growth potential, comply with GENIUS NY’s terms, commit to living full-time in Central New York during the program, communicate in English, and hold proper travel/work visas to operate in the United States.
GENIUS NY provides startups not only with funding but also with the infrastructure, mentorship, network, and strategic support to turn innovative ideas into successful businesses.
For more information, visit CenterState.
