Diversity Equity & Inclusion Accelerator

We are looking for the best and brightest underestimated entrepreneurs with creative solutions, technologies, and business models for improving the region's economic disparities.

Applicant Eligibility:
The most competitive applicants will be:
- For-profit startups and small businesses,
- Focused on business models that are scalable and impactful,
- Near- or post-revenue, and
- Based in the Greater St. Louis Metropolitan Area.

Perks & Benefits for Winning Founders:
Winning founders will receive the following perks and benefits:

- $50,000 cash award, equity free for ~6-8 founders,
- 8-week exclusive, customized business development program,
- One lead mentor to serve as accountability coach,
- Paid student intern for 20 hours a week during program,
- Access to faculty and researchers to amplify enterprise with possible grants and further research,
- Access to 100,000+ person strong UMSL alumni database,
- Bench of subject matter experts for technical support and customer introductions,
- Various in-kind technology support and direct resources,
- Demo day to pitch business to St. Louis startup ecosystem for further support,
- Free dedicated work space during program, and
- 18 months of incubator space post-program.

Responsibilities for Winning Founders:
Winning founders will be responsible for the following:

- Completing their submission of initial application and subsequent due-diligence documentation;
- Participating in pitch competition, announcement event, and demo day;
- Fully attending 8-week business development program;
- Submitting semi-annual reporting of business progress post-program;
- Signing a founder commitment letter; and
- Growing their company in Greater St. Louis.