fbpx

The CyberTech|X Accelerator is a highly specialized 90-day accelerator program exclusively for innovative and disruptive technology startups focused on cybersecurity.

Participating startups will benefit from the tools and connections they need to achieve high-scale growth, including the strategic support and global network that come from Wave’s incredible track record and world class programs. Further, startups will have access to coaching and mentoring from some of the nation’s leading cyber security experts , including from our key sponsors at A-LIGN, EY, and KnowBe4, as well as from our strategic partners at Cyber Florida, the University of South Florida’s Muma College of Business, Aditum, and Jabil.

Generous support for this program was also provided by Bellini Better World, a non-profit foundation created by the former founder and CEO of Connectwise, Arnie Bellini, after selling the company for over $1.5 billion in 2019.

Tampa Bay Wave is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and takes no equity from participating companies. Wave is also a proud accredited member of GAN.co.

Trulli

The Wave presented the best opportunity for SPHER to enhance several useful skills including capital investment communication, networking, and sharpening our vision towards growth. The strong commitment from staff, mentors, and community set the Wave apart from every other Accelerator we looked at joining. We are deeply grateful for the guidance and ongoing contributions to our success.

Raymond Ribble
Founder/CEO
Trulli

Criteria for Consideration

  • Business built with proprietary technology creating next-generation cyber products & solutions
  • Dedicated management of at least two full-time people
  • Ability to travel to Tampa at least 3 times during the 90-day program*
  • Proof of market validation
  • Investable and/or scalable business
  • Viable business plan
  • Financial runaway of at least 6-12 months

*Note: Travel during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic can pose a high-risk for acquiring the infection and spreading it to others. We are continually monitoring the situation and will make final decisions about in-person vs. virtual programming prior to the program kick-off.

The 2023 CyberTech | X Accelerator cohort is completed. We will soon be posting details for the 2024 application. Please stay tuned!

Accelerator Benefits

Guidance & Mentorship

  • Dedicated support & coaching staff
  • Curated events with & ongoing access to Wave’s 100+ experienced mentors
  • 24/7 only platform access to global mentor network

Community & Connections

  • Immersive experience with cohort peers
  • Membership in Wave’s full startup community (100+ startups)
  • Curated networking events and introductions to national business prospects

Access to Capital

  • Exposure and warm introductions to Wave’s 300+ investor network
  • Exposure via Demo Day event that attracts national accredited investors
  • Pre-investment pitch deck and negotiation coaching

Exposure & Savings

  • Media exposure through Wave’s press/pr team and social media
  • Massive exposure through multiple in-person / virtual pitch events
  • > $10,000 in annual savings through GAN and other partners
  • Flex office space and meeting rooms access

Program Structure

Build + Launch + Grow

Build, launch and grow are not only the phases of any startup venture, they are the framework by which we support our companies. Our BUILD-LAUNCH-GROW framework provides targeted support for the demands your company will experience that will ultimately lead to success.

Mentorship

Mentorship is one of the single most important tools for any startup founder or CEO. Tampa Bay Wave’s extensive network of mentors provide a unique and diverse group of experts that will provide infinite value throughout your company’s journey toward success.

Extensive Network

It’s been said that it’s all about who you know. Tampa Bay Wave’s extensive network of supporters, mentors, entrepreneurs in residence, community advocates and business leaders make up a tremendous community of people who will provide you and your company a firm foundation of growth.

Asim Murad (Bank of America)
SVP, Technology Partnership & Business Development
Cathleen Ryan Reneer (JPMorgan Chase)
Managing Director
Christopher Rogers (SYKES Enterprises)
Chief Security Officer and Deputy CIO
Danielle M. Alvarez (Accenture)
Cybersecurity Senior Manager
Erich Kron (KnowBe4)
Cybersecurity Expert and Evangelist
Ernest Ferraresso (Cyber Florida)
Associate Director
Jed Young (Jabil)
CISO
Kishen Sridharan (Raymond James)
Technology Partnerships Executive
Leela (Lee) Gray (Retired, U.S. Army)
Brigadier General (Retired), U.S. Army
Mai Ensmann (Cyber Florida)
Sr. Program Planner
Mike Fraser (Sophos, formerly Refactr)
VP of DevSecOps
Petar Besalev (A-LIGN)
SVP Cybersecurity and Privacy Services
Rolando Torres (abacode)
Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer
Russ Miller (OPSWAT)
CTO, Secure Access
Ruth Brophy (HIG Capital)
Senior Advisor
Scott Margolis (EY)
Managing Director, Data Privacy & Protection; RegTech
Sean Drake (Stony Lonesome Group)
Managing Partner
Thom Kenney (USSOCOM)
Chief Data Officer, Director of Special Operations Forces Artificial Intelligence
Vince Rocca (Digital Hands)
CIO

Key Dates

Application Opens:October 2, 2023
Application Due:December 15, 2023
Kick Off Week:February 5, 2024
Pitch Night:April 11, 2024