Points of Light is partnering with Village Capital to launch the first startup accelerator program focused on “civic ventures” – enterprises that inspire, equip and mobilize people to create positive change.
With generous support from the PwC Charitable Foundation, Inc. and Starbucks Foundation, we're now accepting applications for a second group of entrepreneurs for the Civic Accelerator program. In partnership with Village Capital, we culminated the first cohort of the Civic Accelerator in January, a 12-week boot camp dedicated to boosting early-stage ventures with missions that engage people as part of the solution. The second program will kick off this May and early stage for-profits and nonprofits are encouraged to apply.
WHAT WE PROVIDE:
We help social entrepreneurs launch successful, innovative solutions to our nation’s most intractable problems by capitalizing on three powerful trends in the world today:
Social Entrepreneurship + Civic Engagement + Accelerator Models.
FUNDING
Each team will receive an initial investment (averaging $10,000 each), plus two of the most promising ventures will receive larger seed investment (usually not more than $50,000 each) selected by the entrepreneurs themselves.
MENTORING
Access to and support from an elite group of experienced entrepreneurs, impact investors and community leaders — all committed to your success.
ENTREPRENEURIAL EDUCATION
Training from industry experts on fundraising, startup engineering, marketing and scaling your startup.
PEER SUPPORT & NETWORKING
Direct connections with a peer group of social entrepreneurs from around the country — working closely over the intensive, yet collaborative program.
BRAND AWARENESS & CREDIBILITY
Access to a growing network of nonprofits, corporations and investors — allowing the world to become aware of your new civic venture.
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT AT WORK:
To best understand our view of civic engagement, we have included three well-known organizations who all leverage people as a core part of their solution:
FIND OUT MORE…
- Want to know more about the program features and curriculum?
- What are some of the keydates?
- Is your venture eligible?
- Have you met our team?