Creative Destruction Lab 2026/27 Startup Program

About

An accelerator program designed for seed-stage companies with scalable science or technology ventures, offering focused mentorship, technical guidance, and access to a global network of experts and investors. Participants will engage in structured sessions and work intensively with mentors to achieve specific objectives without incurring fees or giving up equity.

Benefits

• 🎓Focused Mentorship
  Access to accomplished entrepreneurs and investors for tailored guidance
• 🔬Technical Guidance
  Receive support from leading scientists and engineers to enhance your project
• 📈Personalized Objectives
  Engage in an 8-week structured program to sharpen strategy and drive execution
• 🌐Global Network Access
  Connect with CDL’s extensive network of founders, funders, and researchers
• 🚫No Fees
  Participation in the program incurs no fees and requires no equity stake.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be a seed-stage company with a massively scalable, science or technology-based venture
• Must be willing to work intensively with CDL's network of mentors
• Company must have a strong technical team or scientific foundation
• Must apply to a relevant stream (health, climate, AI, quantum)
• Open to companies from around the world.

Participation Commitments

• Must attend three in-person objective-setting sessions (Estonia in September 2026, Germany in February 2027, Canada in May 2027)
• Engage in intensive full-day sessions with mentors every eight weeks
• Complete a structured program with specific objectives and deliverables.

Target Region

Global

Target Sector

Technology, Healthcare, Clean Technology, AI, Quantum