U.S. Early Stage Accelerator Program

Industry Tracks

The U.S. Early Stage Program also features special, industry-specific programming. These industry tracks will provide additional programming and networking opportunities from leading experts specific to each industry. Track curriculum will largely be delivered in person and is open to all program participants. There is no need to apply for a track in advance.

• Climate Solutions: This track will provide value to startups with solutions that impact greenhouse gas emissions or mitigate the impact of climate change. Technologies of interest include carbon capture, AgTech, geoengineering, mobility, and energy efficiency.
• Dual Use: This track will focus on startups with direct or potential relevance to national security and public safety challenges and applications in the commercial and governmental/military sectors. Some areas of interest include cybersecurity, underwater sensing, systems integrations, and human performance.
• FinTech: This track will support startups to fuel their innovation across banking, insurance, asset management, and many other financial sectors. MassChallenge FinTech partners are especially interested in data management, security, workflow automation, and financial education and planning.
• HealthTech: This track will support startups that provide clinicians and healthcare organizations with new treatments, technologies, or processes. These solutions should be focused on improving the needs and welfare of patients as well as reducing the burden on healthcare professionals.

Program Benefits: How they Help Startups Accelerate

• Connections: Forge invaluable connections within a robust network of mentors, peers, and the wider MassChallenge community. Leverage these relationships to amplify your growth and access opportunities beyond the program.
• Mentorship: Collaborate closely with a dedicated lead mentor, your ‘Startup Champion’, to craft precise goals, track progress, and receive tailored guidance throughout the program. Engage with a diverse pool of experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders who are committed to supporting your journey. Select multiple mentors aligned with your objectives to maximize your progress.
• Peer Support: Join forces with over 100 startups, foster friendships, and build a supportive network of like-minded founders. This collaborative environment provides invaluable insights and shared experiences to bolster your entrepreneurial path.
• Customer Access: Benefit from MassChallenge’s unique ties to leading enterprises and institutions, including government entities. Gain actionable insights to approach new markets, receive invaluable feedback from relevant brands, and fortify your strategies for scalable growth.
• Strategic Partnerships: Leverage the extensive network of global corporate partners, such as IBM, BAE Systems, Carta, Fundify, and First Republic Bank. These partnerships offer unparalleled opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and potential future endeavors.
• Residency and Community Access: Enjoy complimentary office space in Boston and Dallas, providing a conducive environment for innovation and collaboration. Gain exclusive, year-long access to the diverse events and vibrant community, fostering ongoing learning and networking opportunities.
• Knowledge Enrichment: Access optional, highly curated curriculum focusing on sound strategic fundamentals, leveraging tools like the Lean Canvas. Delve deeper into critical topics such as fundraising, sales strategies, and effective leadership approaches to fortify your business acumen.
• Industry Tracks: Participate in specialized industry tracks—Climate, Dual Use, FinTech, and HealthTech – to elevate your visibility and readiness within these sectors, paving the way for enhanced opportunities and industry-specific guidance.
• Capital Opportunities: Stand a chance to secure a share of $1M+ in no-equity grants awarded during the annual February awards event, RESOLVE. MassChallenge attracts support from angels and VCs, with the alums collectively raising over $9B in funding—a testament to the network’s potential for future fundraising endeavors.

Eligibility Guidelines

• They welcome all applicants who can benefit from the U.S. Early Stage Program. Please note the following:
  • The program experience is tailored for early-stage companies, from the ideation stage to early market engagement.
  • This generally correlates to startups that have raised less than $1M in equity-based funding and generated less than $2M in annual revenue.
• While funding and revenue are important factors, they realize that in some markets, startups are considered early stage with greater initial funding or higher annual revenue.

For more information, visit MassChallenge.