A new accelerator program in Orlando will provide opportunities for companies with military connections.
The Veterans Entrepreneurship Initiative will launch its new SPEAR Accelerator, a three-month program that aims to support veterans who launch businesses, in October.
The application period for the program starts Friday, Aug. 30..
Initially, the VEI’s accelerator will focus on businesses that can demonstrate market traction in three sectors: artificial intelligence in healthcare, neurotechnology and digital health.
The application deadline is Oct. 18.
Ricardo Garcia, cofounder of the accelerator and the VEI, put out a call for early stage, veteran-led tech companies in May.
More specifically, teams with veterans in C-suite leadership positions and at least a 10 percent ownership stake by veterans will be considered.
For the full requirements, visit SPEAR’s website.
“It’s been surreal to bring this vision to life,” Garcia said. “It has been a fun experience that really enables us to have a deep impact on veteran-led startups. Veterans have been innovating in technology.”
A first cohort will be selected after applications are received with an announcement expected in October. The plan will then be to launch the accelerator sometime in February.
The class will finish its program next May.
The Veterans Entrepreneurship Initiative announced the upcoming program in May.
Ever since, other veterans have come together to support the effort.
“It’s really rewarding,” Garcia said. “We have been hearing a lot of excitement around this. This is how we can have an impact on early stage startups: connecting them to resources, mentors and domain experts.”
