Delaware Innovation Space’s Science Inc. accelerator readies for cohort #2

A local accelerator is hosting a last info session for founders before its app window closes.

In February 2021, the Delaware Innovation Space launched the first cohort of its Science Inc. virtual accelerator, a free, five-month program for early-stage STEM startups. That cohort helped 10 companies, including Carbon Reform, SAS Nanotechnologies and Startup302 winner Elyte Energy, clarify their business strategies and prepare for fundraising, whether through grants or VC funding, culminating in a Demo Day pitch event.

“It’s an accelerator for early-stage startups who have completed some of the initial market research and customer discovery and are ready to jump in to putting those critical business building blocks in place as they move toward fundraising,” said Hattie Duplechain, program manager for the Innovation Space. The program so far has been entirely online, but “ultimately it will be hybrid, primarily online with some in-person functions for our companies to take advantage of.”

The second, more streamlined three-month cohort, which will run from Sept. 1 to Nov. 30, is currently accepting applications through July 16, and a free information session will be held on July 13 for STEM entrepreneurs interested in applying to this or future cohorts. Eligible startups can work in an array of science-based industries, including advanced materials, biotechnology, chemical intermediates, diagnostics, healthcare, nutrition, renewable energy and therapeutics.

Founders are expected to commit 30 hours per month to the accelerator, which includes weekly coaching workshops and pitch preparation. As of this June, accepted startups are also eligible to apply for up to $50,000 in cash and resources through the Innovation Space’s First Fund program.

To apply for the fall cohort or register for the July 13 information session, visit the program page on innovationspace.org.