Access Application
*April 12th Deadline
It's Time to Accelerate Your Startup!
All Rights Reserved. Tampa Bay Wave ® 2020
Build, launch and grow are not only the phases of any startup venture, they are the framework by which we support our companies. Our BUILD-LAUNCH-GROW framework provides targeted support for the demands your company will experience that will ultimately lead to success.
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
It’s been said that it’s all about who you know. Tampa Bay Wave’s extensive network of supporters, mentors, entrepreneurs in residence, community advocates and business leaders make up a tremendous community of people who will provide you and your company a firm foundation for growth.
Mentorship is one of the single most important tools for any startup founder or CEO. Tampa Bay Wave’s extensive network of mentors provides a unique and diverse group of experts that will provide infinite value throughout your company’s journey toward success.
ACCELERATOR BENEFITS
ACCESS TO CAPITAL
- Growing and engaged investor network of 200+ with introductions based on readiness and investor fit
- Capital Coaching Program to help prepare for Pitches, Investor Meetings, etc.
- TechDiversity Demo Day event catered to our investor community
CONNECTIONS
- Invites to socials, community events and other opportunities to network and engage
- Women’s Forum Quarterly Events for Women-lead companies
- Major Tech Ecosystem Events introducing you to the Tampa Bay Ecosystem
SAVINGS & ADDED VALUE
- $2,000 Travel Stipend provided to each accepted company to help offset the cost of travel to Tampa
- Annual Tampa Bay Wave membership fee ($2,400) is free for the first year
- Opportunity to apply for a pro bono consultation engagement from Nielsen’s Diverse Leadership Program (Post Formal Accelerator Program)
- PR and Marketing support to communicate successes and celebrate milestones
- Coworking, Wifi, and 20 hours of meeting space each month
- Save over $10,000 annually with our perks partners
MENTORING
- TechDiversity Cohort Director for Dedicated Support & Coaching
- One of the largest mentor networks in Florida with subject & vertical expertise
- Membership to Union - our Company & Mentor Connection Platform
- Mentor Surge to meet many mentors in one event
Tampa Bay Wave and the Nielsen Foundation have created the TechDiversity program as a unique opportunity to build strength and value through the varied experiences, value, and knowledge.
This program gives entrepreneurs of varied backgrounds an opportunity to leverage their diversity for the expressed purpose of realizing their aspirations of success, and to make a positive impact on our growing community.
Apply for the 2020 TechDiversity Accelerator
2020 TECHDIVERSITY ACCELERATOR
Powered By
- Person with disability
- 51% ownership or operated by a minority, woman, veteran or lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender person, or a combination thereof
- Dedicated management of at least two full-time people
- Ability to travel to Tampa at least 3 times during the 90-day program
- Proof of market validation
- Investable and/or scalable business
- Viable business plan
- Financial runaway of at least 6-12 months
CRITERIA FOR CONSIDERATION
Each of our cohorts are punctuated with an amazing Demo Day event that has proven to be a valuable opportunity to connect with our vast investor network and our ecosystem at large. The event draws 150+ attendees and has generated capital and connections for our cohort companies.
TECHDIVERSITY DEMO DAY
Key Dates
Jan 7th - Applications open
April 12th - Deadline to apply
Week of April 22nd - Interviews with Selection Committee (Virtual or in person)
May 1st - Selected companies are notified
June 2nd-5th - Program Kick off week in Tampa (Mandatory)
July 14th-17th - Events & Programs in Tampa (Mandatory)
September 15th - Demo Day (Mandatory)
* There will also be Cohort Calls and virtual mentoring sessions throughout the program.