UC Berkeley Startup Accelerator@Skydeck

Skydeck

The purpose of the UC Berkeley Startup Accelerator is to produce fundable startup companies with scalable business models. The new approach to incubation at Berkeley will match an exclusive group of companies with high-quality mentors with deep expertise and connections in industry and Venture Capital.

Click here for fall/winter 2011 application information

Initially, the program will focus on startups in Consumer Web & Mobile, Enterprise Software & Big Data, and Cleantech & Energy. Companies will be given support through customer development processes and business model validation by seasoned entrepreneurs. Ultimately, selected companies will be on a path to revenue generation and securing funding. At least one of the company’s founding members must be a currently enrolled UC Berkeley or UCSF student or an alumnus who has graduated from UC Berkeley or UCSF within the last 5 years.

Mentorship

Matching experienced mentors from Venture Capital, Industry, and the entrepreneurial community will be a key component of the Accelerator. The Lester Center will be attracting luminaries and mentors from each industry vertical. For example, Richard Chen and Justin Yoshimura will be available to our first class of Consumer Web & Mobile companies.

Introducing Skydeck

The Skydeck ushers in a new era for Entrepreneurship at Berkeley. This stunning new facility will provide an unparalleled opportunity for select Berkeley startups looking for workspace and support while launching products and securing funding.

Skydeck is a spectacular venue for entrepreneurial events like the Health Data Hackathon

Skydeck offers premium, fully equipped office space in the heart of Berkeley, with excellent transit options and close proximity to campus. There is ample conference, meeting, and event space, not to mention stunning 360 views of the Bay and Hills. Skydeck is the first time companies recruited by the Haas School of Business and the College of Engineering will share space, creating a new and powerful startup ecosystem with a never-before realized backing by UC Berkeley.

Fall/Winter 2011 Application Information

Information Sessions

Wednesday, November 16, 2011 from 6:00 – 6:46 p.m. at 2150 Shattuck, Penthouse

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 from 6:00 – 6:45 p.m. at 2150 Shattuck, Penthouse

To Apply

Complete this application form by December 4th.

Interviews will be held the week of December 5th, and a select group of applicants will be invited to a Pitch Day, on December 12 from 1 p.m – 8 p.m. Final selection announcements will be made on December 13.

Basic Qualifications

At least one of the company’s founding members must be a currently enrolled UC Berkeley or UCSF student or an alumnus who has graduated from UC Berkeley or UCSF within the last 5 years.

Email berkeley.e.lab@gmail.com for more information. Good luck!

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