Mastering the Techstars Application: Group Office Hours
Group Office Hours
Join our group office hours to meet the Techstars team from our two NYC programs, Techstars NYC and Techstars Economic Mobility powered by Samvid Ventures, and have all your application questions answered directly.
Before the session, start your startup application for our New York programs here.
Then read and duplicate the Techstars Application Guide google doc.
FAQ
Let's get started with some of the most frequently asked questions:
Q: How much does Techstars invest and at what terms?
A: Techstars' investment is $220,000, and the capital comes with all the benefits of our 3-month mentorship-driven accelerator program, valuable perks from our partners, and access to our world-class network of investors, partners, mentors, and alumni.
The $220,000 offer comprises two components, including $200,000 through an uncapped MFN SAFE and $20,000 through a Post-Money Convertible Common Equity Agreement (CEA). The total equity Techstars receives will be 5% of the company in common stock plus the future value of the $200,000 uncapped MFN Safe. For example, if your next round is valued at $20M pre-money, the $200,000 MFN Safe would then convert into 1% additional ownership at that time.
Q: What do you look for in founders for your programs in New York City?
A: We look for founders who deeply understand their customers' pain, demonstrate the ability to execute quickly, and build in a market large enough to make $1B+ in annual revenue possible.
In addition to the above, our Techstars New York City program looks for founders who can leverage the city's density and diversity of industry and capital to accelerate product-market fit.
Our Techstars Economic Mobility powered by Samvid Ventures program looks for founders building high-growth, scalable solutions for the 120 million Americans and nearly 40% of U.S. households classified as low—or moderate-income (LMI). This represents a massive and underpenetrated market with strong demand across essential services.
Q: I am working/studying right now; can I still participate in Techstars?
A: You don't have to be full-time to apply to Techstars; however, if accepted into the program, we expect you'll dedicate full exclusivity to your startup with no other academic or work engagements.
Q: I'm very busy running my company and don't have time for an accelerator. How much time does Techstars take?
A: The Techstars programs in NYC are not school; we custom-tailor the program to your most immediate obstacles so that you can crush obstacles along the way and get to Product-Market Fit faster. Any time you spend with your mentors and program staff will be to help you do two years' worth of work in three months.
Q: I have already closed or will soon close a round of funding. Am I too late-stage for Techstars?
A: Many of our founders secure between $1M and $5M in funding before the program begins. Our Uncapped MFN SAFE ensures that Techstars aligns with any past or present investments, allowing us to boost your company’s success regardless of your starting stage in the program.
Q: What are the dates and format of the programs in NYC?
A: Our programs start in the first week of September, with Demo Day in December. We front-load content and mentor matching to the first two weeks, then personalize the support for each company for the duration of the program. The program format is in-person. Applications are due June 11th.
Q: I am a founder outside the U.S.; can I still apply?
A: Yes! We believe great founders can come from anywhere! The in-person NYC programs are best for founders whose first and primary market is the U.S. We invest only in Delaware C-Corporations.