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TechDiversity Accelerator

Tampa Bay Wave and the Nielsen Foundation have created the TechDiversity program as a unique opportunity to build strength and value through the varied experiences and knowledge of diverse founders.

This program gives entrepreneurs of varied backgrounds an opportunity to leverage their diversity for the expressed purpose of realizing their aspirations of success, and to make a positive impact on our growing tech ecosystem.

Trulli

The Tampa Bay Wave TechDiversity Accelerator really helped us level up our company development. They bring tremendous value and a strong network that has helped us learn and grow.

Tran T. Huynh, D.O.
OpticSurg, President
Trulli

Criteria for Consideration

  • 51% ownership or operated by one or more founders who are minority, woman, veteran, differently-abled, LBGTQ, or a combination thereof
  • 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

Applications are closed. Sign up to get notified when it reopens.

Accelerator Benefits

Guidance and Mentorship

  • TechDiversity Cohort Director for Dedicated Support & Coaching
  • One of the largest mentor networks in Florida with subject & vertical expertise
  • Membership to Union – our Company & Mentor Connection Platform
  • Mentor Surge to meet many mentors in one event

Community and Connections

  • Invites to socials, community events and other opportunities to network and engage
  • Women’s Forum Quarterly Events for Women-led companies
  • Major Tech Ecosystem Events introducing you to the Tampa Bay Ecosystem

Access to Capital

  • Growing and engaged investor network of 200+ with introductions based on readiness and investor fit
  • Capital Coaching Program to help prepare for Pitches, Investor Meetings, etc.
  • TechDiversity Demo Day event catered to our investor community

Exposure and Savings

  • $2,000 Travel Stipend provided to each accepted company to help offset the cost of travel to Tampa
  • Annual Tampa Bay Wave membership fee ($2,400) is free for the first year
  • PR and Marketing support to communicate successes and celebrate milestones
  • Coworking, Wifi, and 20 hours of meeting space each month
  • Save over $10,000 annually with our perks partners

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.

Demo Day

Key Dates

TBANext Cohort

It's Time to Accelerate Your Startup

ACCESS APPLICATION

Pillars of Innovation Sponsors

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