Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator
UC Berkeley's global startup accelerator — $200K investment plus a six-month program with Berkeley faculty and mentors.
Quick answer
Berkeley SkyDeck offers eligible startups up to $200,000 in funding and resources, in exchange for equity. An application is required, and it is open to startups worldwide (pre-seed – seed).
Available programs
$200,000
SkyDeck Cohort
Six-month accelerator program with $200K investment, Berkeley faculty advisors, and global mentor network.
- $200K investment
- Six-month accelerator program
- UC Berkeley faculty + mentor network
- Demo Day to top investors
- Free office space at SkyDeck HQ in Berkeley
Best for
Do you qualify for Berkeley SkyDeck?
You likely qualify if
- You have a committed founding team and an early product or validated direction
- You can participate in the mandatory sessions and 6-month cohort program
- You can accept ~$200K-$210K for ~7.5% (standard post-money cap SAFE or similar)
You won't qualify if
- You only have an idea with no team or early build
- You cannot commit to the in-person, advisor-led 6-month program
Common rejection reasons
- Limited cohort size (roughly 20-25 teams) makes selection very competitive
- Insufficient traction, unclear market, or weak team for the stage
How to apply for Berkeley SkyDeck
-
1
Check eligibility
Open to startups globally, any sector or stage. Berkeley affiliation is not required. Two batches per year.
-
2
Prepare your application
Have your team, product, and traction ready.
-
3
Apply via Berkeley SkyDeck
Submit at skydeck.berkeley.edu/apply.
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4
Interview & join
Selected startups receive up to $200k plus the accelerator program and Berkeley network. This is an equity program.
Stacks well with
Founders who claim Berkeley SkyDeck commonly pair it with these to build a bigger credit stack.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Berkeley SkyDeck give startups?
Berkeley SkyDeck provides eligible startups with up to $200,000 in funding and resources across its programs.
Does Berkeley SkyDeck take equity from startups?
Yes — Berkeley SkyDeck's program involves giving up equity. Review the terms before applying.
Who qualifies for Berkeley SkyDeck?
Eligible startups generally must meet criteria such as: Two batches per year; Open to startups globally (any sector, any stage); Berkeley affiliation not required.
Is Berkeley SkyDeck free for startups?
Applying is free. Berkeley SkyDeck provides up to $200,000 in funding and resources in exchange for equity.
How do I apply for Berkeley SkyDeck?
1) Check eligibility, 2) Prepare your application, 3) Apply via Berkeley SkyDeck, 4) Interview & join. Full steps are on this page.
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