Techstars, the worldwide network that helps entrepreneurs succeed, today announced the Techstars Equitech Accelerator, a new Baltimore-based program focused on driving an inclusive innovation economy in Charm City. The accelerator is a collaboration with UpSurge Baltimore, a recently launched Public Benefit Corporation aimed at propelling Baltimore into the top tier of innovation cities.
The accelerator embraces UpSurge’s distinctive framework of ‘equitech.’ Equitech is an industry-agnostic framework focused on building an innovation economy where all belong. It’s a force-multiplier, building on the proven benefits of diverse teams, leaders and perspectives. Equitech is a lens to attract, align and support startups – not a filter to exclude them. Equitech companies include those grounded in the values of diversity, those led by underestimated founders, and those developing technologies that increase access and equity in society.
“Baltimore is a city with an incredible network of civic, academic and corporate organizations ready to drive this big vision to establish Baltimore as the world’s first Equitech city,” said Nancy Wolff, General Manager at Techstars. “We are genuinely honored to be joining forces with UpSurge to launch the Techstars Equitech Accelerator, support the growth of Baltimore’s innovation economy, and prove that diversity and belonging accelerates startup and business performance.”
The Techstars Equitech Accelerator will begin accepting applications from global startups for its inaugural class on May 10, 2021 for a three-month program that will take place November 2021 through February 2022. Techstars and UpSurge are currently seeking a Managing Director to lead the program with support from UpSurge leadership. Annually, ten startups will be selected to participate in the accelerator where they will receive funding, hands-on mentorship from the Techstars and UpSurge networks, access to curated workshops and resources, and access to the Techstars global network for life.
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