Andrews Launch Accelerator
The Andrews Launch Accelerator helps NC State founders turn their visions into reality.
The NC State Acceleration Fund is the product of a $1,000,000 donation from Lyn and Chip Andrews. Through the fund, we allocate equity-free seed capital to startups that complete the Andrews Launch Accelerator.
The purpose of the Accelerator is to give NC State founders the opportunity to jumpstart their entrepreneurial journey. We provide founders with funding, resources, and guidance to take their startup to the next level.
During our 14-weeks summer program, NC State startup founders get to work on their concepts and build their companies. The program is structured with learning modules that steer companies in the right direction.
Each module covers key entrepreneurial topics such as customer discovery, product development and fundraising. The modules end with our Demo Day where companies get to pitch to the top investors in the Raleigh-Durham area.
25+ companies
Have participated in the Andrews Launch Accelerator
Over 3 MM in revenue
Generated by ALA companies
Up to $15,000
Participating startups typically receive between $5,000 and $15,000 in equity-free grants
Program Details and FAQs
How much funding is offered to participants?
Startups receive, on average, $5-$10k in equity-free grants. The amount awarded will be determined by the Accelerator committee on a case-by-case basis.
What is the 14-week program like?
This year’s program will kick off in May 2023. The meetings vary between dedicated team meetings, where subject matter experts decompose critical subjects and strategies that companies can leverage and one-on-one development sessions. Additionally, the Accelerator brings accomplished entrepreneurs and investors every week that will share their take on how our startups can achieve success.
The program concludes with “Demo Day,” in which the cohort pitch their company in front of the Raleigh community and investors in late August. Take a look at 2020’s demo day pitches.
Are there additional program perks in addition to the funding?
In addition to non-dilutive capital, grant recipients may receive the following:
- Up to $10,000 in Amazon Web Services credits
- Pro bono business services (legal and accounting) to support structure and formation
- Access to banking relationships
- Access to angel investment & venture capitalist networks
- Mentorship
- Talent acquisition/recruiting services
- Access to the NC State Entrepreneurship Clinic space
Who qualifies?
Any team with an NC State team member qualifies for funding and participation. At least one team member must be an NC State undergraduate or graduate student, or a recent alumni (up to 5 years from graduation) from any NC State program.
At least one founder of every team needs to commit to attending in person all the Accelerator Modules.
What is the timeline from start to finish?
Andrews Launch Accelerator Applications Open Spring 2024
Meet Our Entrepreneurs
Explore five start-up companies chosen to complete the Andrews Launch Accelerator summer program.
