Accelerators serve entrepreneurs in a broad set of industries and sectors, including everything from manufacturing and tech start-ups, to farming and biotech. They are organizations that help entrepreneurs grow. There is also a focus on creating diverse and inclusive small business communities.
Applicants
Applicants may include accelerators, incubators, co-working startup communities, and others. Some of the most recent winners have included Carolyn Rodz, founder of the Circular Board, an accelerator that supports women entrepreneurs by hosting online seminars on topics such as fundraising, going through a re-branding, and making key hires. She also plans to invest in several portfolio companies.
SBA is seeking applicants that are headed by women and those who support them or other underrepresented groups. Twenty monetary prizes of $50,000 each are awarded. Application periods generally open in June and close in July.
For more information on the SBA Growth Accelerator Fund Competition, visit www.sba.gov/content/sba-growth-accelerator-fund-competition
