Because Accelerator

Get to the next stage with your innovative product with the Because Accelerator.

Get to the next stage with your innovative product with the Because Accelerator—a free, online program for early-to-middle stage entrepreneurs with socially innovative products.

Because International is now accepting applications for the Because Accelerator, a free online program for early-to-middle stage entrepreneurs who want to take their socially innovative product to the next level. Participants will go through a 10-week training program, weekly one-on-one coaching, networking, and at the end of the cohort, there will be an opportunity to compete in a pitch event for a cash prize, long-term coaching support, funding opportunities, and exposure to international markets. Entrepreneurs from around the world are invited to apply by August 17.

Features of the program

10-weeks of digital training: An online cohort training model with topics common to startups based on our own experience with The Shoe That Grows. Each week will challenge your thinking around your product and business.
One-on-one coaching: Get matched with an experienced coach who will mentor you throughout the program.
Networking opportunities: Meet with our Advisor Network, a group of experts with worldwide connections you can tap into.
Funding: Each entrepreneur gets the chance to compete for a cash prize at the end of the program. Other funding opportunities include exposure to investors.

Who is the program for?

The Because Accelerator was created for early-to-middle stage entrepreneurs that have a socially innovative physical product that has proven market attractiveness. Anyone with a product that can make a difference in the lives of those around them is encouraged to apply! Whether this is your first product or you’re looking at adding something to an existing line, the Because Accelerator can help you overcome challenges, set goals, and share your ideas with potential investors!
We work with entrepreneurs with physical products, not services or intangible products. If you are in the service or tech industry, including restaurant, entertainment, tourism, education, software and food products, we’d encourage you to other programs that may be better positioned to assist you.

2022 Cohort Details

Drawing from what we’ve learned in bringing our own manufactured product to market, the Because Accelerator is designed for an entrepreneur who is in the early to middle stages of product development. The program is uniquely focused on overcoming the challenges to developing affordable manufactured products which have proven market attractiveness and are ready to aim for production at scale. This training will be beneficial for both entrepreneurs who are launching their first product, or those who are looking to add something to an existing line. The ten sessions cover the following concepts:

Fully understanding the problem
Stages of product design and development
Launching a business
Creating a financial plan
Developing a marketing and sales plan
Setting and achieving growth goals

Upon completion, entrepreneurs will have a written business plan, a polished pitch ready to share with potential investors, progress towards or completion of a next level goal and an opportunity to participate in an annual pitch competition.