Our ACCELERATORs create opportunities for entrepreneurs to gain skills, expand their network, and access resources while growing a business in Philadelphia.

Interested in mentoring a startup? Complete the form below.


series I: Idea Stage entrepreneurs

From idea to reality

Where can you go in the city to pursue building a tech startup when you want a career change, have never been exposed to entrepreneurship, or simply need an extra push forward? There are not many places offering education, mentorship, and support - regardless of the industry or outcome - and we wanted to change that.

This annual idea-stage program is designed to teach promising founders the mindset, skills, and endurance needed to pursue entrepreneurship and build a sustainable company. We focus solely on founder development and mentorship, and do not take equity in our accelerators. We leave that game to others. The program ends with the opportunity to demo at our Entrepreneur Expo, Philadelphia’s largest annual showcase of startups and technology companies, taking place during Philly Tech Week.

The details: 20 entrepreneurs selected | February - April | Tuesday evenings |

Applications for our 2021 cohort opens this fall

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series II: early-stage startups

Since 2014, our MVP-stage accelerator (minimum viable product) has equipped early-stage startups with the mentorship, knowledge, and network needed to prepare for growth. This 12-week program guides early-stage startups through a series of learning opportunities that exposes them to a support system, financial opportunities, coaching, mentorship, and more. We empower these entrepreneurs to build their network and entrepreneurial toolkit, preparing them to refine their business models and accelerate growth.

We focus solely on founder development and mentorship, and do not take equity in our accelerators. We leave that game to others. The program ends with the opportunity to pitch at our Founder Factory conference.

The details: 10 MVP-stage startups | September - November | Tuesday evenings |

Applications open this summer


Thanks to a special partnership with the City of Philadelphia’s Venture Program, we will be awarding up to $150,000 in grants to participating entrepreneurs from socially or economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Additional details with be shared with applicants.

Perks

 
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Events

Attend all PSL signature events at no cost. Demo during our Entrepreneur Expo, the largest tech trade show in Philadelphia

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Education

Participate in experiential learning workshops designed and led by successful startup leaders

 
 
 
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Acceleration

Get immersed in a highly engaged and interactive learning environment to help develop your idea and grow your business

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Community

Become a part of an active, supportive community of  entrepreneurs & mentors during the program and beyond

 
 
 
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Mentorship

Receive mentorship from high-quality, experienced startup leaders

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Network

Join our engaging alumni network to confidently grow your business after the program ends

 

“
Mark Switaj, Founder and CEO of Roundtrip

"The PSL Accelerator was and will continue to be one of the greatest catalysts of our organization's growth."

Mark and team raised a seed round of $1.9M after the program and recently announced a $5.1M Series A.

for questions contact Engage@phillystartupleaders.org