USC and Techstars Accelerator 2027

About

The USC and Techstars Accelerator is a 13-week in-person program designed for innovative pre-seed and seed-stage companies, providing substantial equity investment, access to university resources, and a global network of mentors and investors to accelerate growth.

Benefits

• 💰$220,000 equity investment — financial support for startups
• 🎓Access to USC's research and talent — leverage university resources
• 🌐Global network access — connect with mentors, investors, and alumni
• 🏢Office space provided — workspace during the program
• 📅13-week program — intensive mentorship and workshops
• 🎤Demo Day — pitch to investors at the end of the program

Eligibility Criteria

• At least one founding team member must be affiliated with USC as a student, alumnus, faculty member, or staff member
• Founders affiliated with Keck Medicine of USC and Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) are also eligible
• Open to innovative pre-seed and seed-stage companies

Participation Commitments

• 13-week in-person program — attendance required at USC's Los Angeles campus
• Regular 1:1 mentor sessions — ongoing engagement with mentors
• Participation in workshops and pitch practice — active involvement in program activities

Target Region

United States, specifically Los Angeles, California

Target Sector

Open to all industries, with a focus on bioscience, engineering, AI, healthcare, deep tech, and media technology