Deep Tech Startup Acceleration Program Launches at CU Boulder

A new accelerator program focused on deep tech startups is set to launch at the University of Colorado Boulder. The four-month program, running from February to June 2026, aims to nurture the development of innovative companies by providing pathways to market and coaching in entrepreneurial finance. The program will culminate in a final pitch to investors, offering participants a chance to showcase their progress.

Program Structure and Commitments

The accelerator is structured to support startups through a combination of workshops and practical deliverables. Weekly workshops will be conducted via Zoom every Wednesday, from noon to 1:30 p.m. Mountain Time. Each team is expected to commit three to five hours per week to the program, with at least one member required to attend all sessions. In addition to attending workshops, teams are responsible for completing monthly in-program deliverables to ensure steady progress toward commercialization.

Participants in the program will focus on commercializing intellectual property developed at CU Boulder. This commitment to leveraging university-born innovations is part of CU Boulder's broader strategy to strengthen its position as a leader in university-driven entrepreneurship.

Industry Applications and Cohort Participants

The program targets startups in key industry sectors, such as biotechnology and clean technology. The Ascent 2023 cohort included companies like Icarus Quantum, which works on quantum computing applications, and TEGSAL, a firm advancing sustainable agriculture technologies. The previous year's cohort featured Cascade BioCatalysts, specializing in biocatalytic processes, and LumenAstra, focusing on advanced lighting solutions.

CU Boulder has been a fertile ground for startup creation, with a record 35 companies launched in the fiscal year 2024. This achievement surpassed the previous record of 20 startups in FY21, earning the university the rank of #2 for all-time startups launched.

Final Showcase and Investor Engagement

The program will conclude with the Ascent Showcase, scheduled for June 24, 2026, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. This event will take place at the Byron R. White Stadium Club at Folsom Field and will provide an opportunity for teams to present their ventures to potential investors and industry stakeholders. The showcase serves as a platform for participants to gain visibility and attract investment to propel their startups forward.

Partnerships with notable accelerators will further enhance the program's impact, offering participants access to a broader network of resources and mentorship. The final pitch to investors will be a significant milestone for participants, as it represents the culmination of months of development and preparation.

CU Boulder's Role in Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

CU Boulder continues to be a significant contributor to the entrepreneurial ecosystem, leading in startup efficiency relative to research investment. The university's Venture Partners initiative provides startup training for researchers, fostering an environment where innovation can thrive. Additionally, the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship and initiatives like Catalyze CU play crucial roles in launching real businesses and supporting future business leaders.

The university's entrepreneurial activities are complemented by Boulder’s vibrant startup scene, which includes events such as Boulder Startup Week, Pitch Boulder, and Boulder Open Coffee. These events offer ample networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and students passionate about startups, contributing to the region's dynamic entrepreneurial culture.

With the launch of this deep tech accelerator program, CU Boulder aims to further solidify its status as a hub for innovative startups and a leader in translating research into impactful commercial ventures.