Techstars Accelerator
$220,000 investment: $20,000 convertible equity for 5% common stock plus $200,000 uncapped MFN SAFE.
Quick answer
Techstars offers eligible startups up to $220,000 in funding and resources, in exchange for equity. An application is required, and it is open to startups worldwide (pre-seed – seed).
Available programs
$220,000
Techstars Accelerator Program
$20,000 convertible equity for 5% common stock plus $200,000 uncapped MFN SAFE. 13-week accelerator program.
- $20,000 convertible equity investment
- $200,000 uncapped MFN SAFE
- 13-week accelerator program
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Access to Techstars global network
Best for
Do you qualify for Techstars?
You likely qualify if
- You have a committed founding team and an early product or traction
- Your startup fits the theme/geography of the program you apply to
- You can accept ~$220K for ~5% common plus the uncapped MFN SAFE and join in person for the cohort
You won't qualify if
- You only have an idea with no team or build capability
- You are unwilling to commit full-time to the in-person 3-month program
Common rejection reasons
- Highly competitive with limited cohort slots (often ~10-12 companies per program)
- Poor fit with the specific program's thesis or weak team/traction signals
How to apply for Techstars
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1
Check eligibility
Be an early-stage, high-growth startup. Programs span many industries and cities.
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2
Prepare your application
Have your team, traction, and the program/city that fits you ready.
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3
Apply via Techstars
Submit at techstars.com/accelerators (note per-program deadlines).
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4
Interview & join
Selected teams receive up to $120k investment plus the 3-month program and network (~$220k total value). This is an equity program.
Stacks well with
Founders who claim Techstars commonly pair it with these to build a bigger credit stack.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Techstars give startups?
Techstars provides eligible startups with up to $220,000 in funding and resources across its programs.
Does Techstars take equity from startups?
Yes — Techstars's program involves giving up equity. Review the terms before applying.
Who qualifies for Techstars?
Eligible startups generally must meet criteria such as: Must be an early-stage company; Must be a high-growth potential startup; Open to various industries depending on the program.
Is Techstars free for startups?
Applying is free. Techstars provides up to $220,000 in funding and resources in exchange for equity.
How do I apply for Techstars?
1) Check eligibility, 2) Prepare your application, 3) Apply via Techstars, 4) Interview & join. Full steps are on this page.
