The Because Accelerator is a business accelerator program designed to help entrepreneurs take their innovative products to the next level.
The program has four primary components:
Training: A 16-week, online curriculum covers topics common to startups and illustrated by Because International’s experience with their own social enterprise startup, The Shoe That Grows.
Coaching: After the first four weeks, select entrepreneurs will be matched with an experienced coach who will mentor them during the program and beyond.
Networking: Entrepreneurs network with members of their cohort, alumni of the Because Accelerator and the Because Advisor Network—a group of subject matter experts with connections worldwide.
Funding: At the end of the cohort, select entrepreneurs will compete in a pitch event for a cash prize. As a result of this competition, they have linked entrepreneurs to over $100k in funding.
Cohort Details
Drawing from what was learned in bringing their own manufactured product—The Shoe That Grows—to market, the Because Accelerator is a business accelerator designed for entrepreneurs in the early- to middle stages of product development. The startup accelerator program is uniquely focused on increasing your revenue growth trajectory during the cohort and creating a plan for sustained growth beyond. The training covers the following concepts:
Entrepreneurial mindset
Developing a marketing and sales plan
Revenue ops and pricing strategy
E-commerce
Customer service and retention
Upon completion, entrepreneurs will have a written business plan, a polished pitch ready to share with potential investors, progress towards or completion of a next-level goal, and an opportunity to participate in an annual pitch competition.
Eligibility
Anyone with a socially innovative product is encouraged to apply for the business accelerator.
They do not work with entrepreneurs in the restaurant, entertainment, education, software, food or service industries.
