Embers Xcelerator
Our team provides 12-week pre-accelerator programs for students, researchers & entrepreneurs to help commercialize and accelerate ideas into viable businesses.
Empowering Entrepreneurs to Accelerate Market-Ready Solutions
The Embers Xcelerator: Grid Connected Cyber
Are you passionate about cyber, AI, operational technology, or strengthening our nation’s electric grid?
Empowering Entrepreneurs to Accelerate Market-Ready Solutions The Embers Accelerator provides early-stage entrepreneurs with a streamlined path from concept to market. By leveraging expert mentorship, cutting-edge resources, and tailored support, participants rapidly refine their business strategies and access critical industry connections. Our graduates launch scalable, validated businesses with confidence, ready to attract funding and disrupt industries.
Key Benefits:
Tailored Mentorship: Our industry-expert mentors help entrepreneurs solve technical, business development, and operational challenges, offering customized support to meet unique startup needs.
Direct Market Access: Participants receive real-time market validation, allowing for fast iteration of products based on direct user feedback and actionable insights.
Accelerated Growth: With resources from national labs and universities, participants access advanced technical support in cybersecurity and energy sectors, enabling them to address grid-related challenges effectively.
By focusing on what entrepreneurs need most—actionable insights, funding connections, and technical expertise—we ensure each participant leaves ready to grow sustainably in their industry.
Program Overview
12-Week Curriculum
Personalized Mentorship
Hands-On Learning
Interactive Lectures
Workshops & Group Activities
Panel Discussions & Pitch Competitions
Pitch Opportunities
Connections to Industry & Funding
Fully Funded by the Dept. of Energy
Possible Academic Course Credit
Technology Focus Areas
Cybersecurity
Renewable Energy
Data Analytics
Critical Infrastructure
Artificial Intelligence
Operational Technology
Related Technologies
Accelerating Ideas into Real Businesses
How It Works
Program Details
Virtual w/ Group Engagement Opportunities
Each Participant Signs the Forge Institute NDA & Program Participation Agreements
Key Dates
November 1 - Applications Open
January 21 - Selection Notifications Sent
January 28 - Program Kickoff
March 25 - Spring Break Week
April 22 - Program Ends
April 24 - Pitch Day
The program runs virtually every Tuesday from 6-9pm.
Weekly Content
Week 1: Kickstarting Your Startup Journey
Week 2: Unleashing Your Market Potential
Week 3: Defining Your Competitive Edge
Week 4: Validating Your Vision
Week 5: Mastering Financial Acumen
Week 6: Structuring for Success and Growth
Week 7: Mastering the Art of Sales
Week 8: Innovate, Test, and Adapt
Week 9: Crafting a Standout Brand
Week 10: Managing Risks and Perfecting Pitches
Week 11: Unlocking Funding Opportunities
Week 12: Strategic Growth Planning
Pitch Day
Program Partners
The program is funded, in part, through a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. All opinions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor, partner or member. Information provided by Forge Institute or any of its employees, contractors, or advisors does not constitute expert or technical advice for any particular matter. Due to the complex nature of cyber, individuals or companies should seek advice from their insurer, attorney or managed service provider. Nothing contained herein should be construed as consultative advice. Forge Institute bears no liability arising in connection with the information it provides. Use of Forge Institute information constitutes agreement to the Terms & Conditions & Privacy Policy located at www.forge.institute/terms.
