Discover how the Terp Startup Accelerator supports student entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and a vibrant founder community to advance your startup.

What Is the Terp Startup Accelerator?

The Terp Startup Accelerator is an intensive 8-week summer program meticulously designed to propel student entrepreneurs toward success. Hosted by the Dingman-Lamone Center, this accelerator delves deep into venture milestones and business fundamentals, ensuring that participants make significant strides in their entrepreneurial journey. The program culminates in a public showcase, known as Demo Day, where startups present their progress to potential investors, partners, and the broader community.

Benefits of Joining the Terp Startup Accelerator

Participating in the Terp Startup Accelerator offers a multitude of advantages that can significantly enhance your startup’s trajectory:

Non-Dilutive Cash Award: Receive up to $5,000 to support your venture without giving up equity.
Additional Funding Opportunities: Showcase your progress on Demo Day and potentially secure further investment.
Personalized Mentorship: Gain ongoing, tailored advice from experienced venture mentors dedicated to your success.
Exclusive Workshops and Resources: Access specialized workshops and invaluable resources to refine your business strategies.
Continued Support: Become eligible to apply for sustained support and non-dilutive funding as a Terp Startup Fellow throughout the academic year.

Success Stories from Past Cohorts

The Terp Startup Accelerator has a proven track record of nurturing innovative startups across various sectors. Here are some standout projects from recent cohorts:

BetterU: A gamified social habit tracker aimed at helping individuals become the best versions of themselves in a fun and interactive way.
Chatty: An AI interviewing agent providing feedback to software engineers, enhancing their problem-solving skills during interviews.
Exchange Roots: A virtual farmer’s market connecting small farmers and gardeners with local customers, strengthening the local food network.
Journiy: A digital care management platform improving patient adherence and health outcomes through culturally tailored education and support.

These startups have not only advanced their products and services but have also secured initial customers and partners, demonstrating the accelerator’s impactful support.

Who Should Apply?

The Terp Startup Accelerator is highly competitive and seeks passionate, driven entrepreneurs ready to take their ventures to the next level. Ideal candidates include:

Entrepreneurial Students or Recent Alumni: Those who have completed initial customer discovery and are actively testing their prototypes.
Founders with Key Milestones: Individuals who have developed a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and are working on acquiring initial customers, possibly through programs like New Venture Practicum or Pitch Dingman Competition.
Innovators from Campus Initiatives: Applicants engaged with campus entrepreneurial resources such as Startup Shell, Do Good, Mtech, or XFoundry.

If you’re committed to growing your startup and making a meaningful impact, the Terp Startup Accelerator could be the perfect fit for you.

How to Apply

Applying to the Terp Startup Accelerator is straightforward. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and prepare a compelling application that showcases your startup’s progress, vision, and potential. Engage with campus entrepreneurial resources and leverage your network to strengthen your application.

Join a Supportive Community of Founders

Beyond the structured program, participants become part of a thriving community of founders. This network fosters lasting connections, providing a platform for advice, collaboration, and mutual support long after the accelerator concludes.

Propel Your Startup Forward

Joining the Terp Startup Accelerator is your opportunity to grow as an entrepreneur, access essential resources, and connect with a vibrant community dedicated to your success. Take the leap and propel your entrepreneurial venture to new heights!

Apply Now and Transform Your Startup Journey