Deadline: November 19, 2025
The USC Techstars Accelerator 2026 is now open for applications! This prestigious program, powered by Techstars in partnership with the University of Southern California (USC), is designed to support early-stage startups across multiple industries with funding, mentorship, and access to a world-class entrepreneurial network.
If you’re an ambitious founder — particularly with an idea in bioscience, AI, deep tech, healthcare, engineering, or media technology — this could be your gateway to rapid growth.
About the USC Techstars Accelerator 2026
The USC Techstars Accelerator 2026 is a 13-week, in-person accelerator program hosted at the University of Southern California’s University Park Campus in Los Angeles. The program will run from March 9 through June 4, 2026, welcoming its second cohort of innovative startups.
Techstars and USC have joined forces to create a unique environment where founders gain hands-on mentorship, growth support, and exposure to investors. The program emphasizes startups that combine technical innovation with real-world impact.
Who Can Apply
The accelerator is open to startups in all industries, but there is special focus on:
- Bioscience
- Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Healthcare
- Deep Technology
- Media Technology
To be eligible, startups must include a USC-affiliated founding member — this can be a current student, alumnus, faculty, or staff. Affiliations also extend to entities like Keck Medicine and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA).
The program will select 10 high-potential companies for its 2026 cohort, and applications close on November 19, 2025. Selected participants will be announced in January 2026.
Funding and Benefits
Selected startups will receive an equity investment of USD $220,000, alongside access to more than $2 million in perks and resources.
Participants will enjoy:
- Access to office space on USC’s campus for the duration of the program
- One-on-one mentorship from industry experts, investors, and alumni
- Curated masterclasses and workshops
- Entry into the Techstars global network, connecting founders with mentors, investors, and corporate partners
- The opportunity to pitch at Demo Day, where startups present to a curated audience of investors and ecosystem leaders
This combination of capital, community, and curriculum positions participants for exponential growth during and after the accelerator.
Key Dates to Remember
- Application Deadline: November 19, 2025
- Program Duration: March 9 – June 4, 2026
- Cohort Announcement: January 2026
Why You Should Apply
Joining the USC Techstars Accelerator 2026 offers startups:
- Access to a powerful partnership between Techstars and USC — a university globally recognized for innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Deep industry connections in Los Angeles’ thriving startup ecosystem.
- A chance to transform your early-stage idea into a scalable, investor-ready business.
- Mentorship from top-tier professionals and access to an extensive alumni network.
If your startup operates in media technology or creative tech, this accelerator could be an ideal fit — providing the structure, resources, and global visibility needed to accelerate your vision.
Important Considerations
Before applying, note the following:
- Your team must include a USC-affiliated founder or collaborator.
- The program is in-person at USC’s campus, requiring full participation in Los Angeles throughout the 13 weeks.
- Techstars typically takes an equity stake as part of its investment; review the terms carefully to understand your commitments.
- Ensure your business is scalable, not just service-based — this accelerator supports startups with growth potential, tech-driven models, or products that can expand beyond one-on-one services.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Highlight your innovation: Clearly define the problem you’re solving and your unique approach.
- Demonstrate traction: Showcase any user base, revenue, or partnerships you’ve developed.
- Show founder-market fit: Explain why your team is best suited to solve this problem.
- Emphasize scalability: Illustrate how your idea can grow into a global business.
- Leverage your USC connection: Strengthen your application by emphasizing your institutional or research ties.
Need Help Preparing Your Application?
If you need expert guidance on crafting a compelling proposal, refining your pitch, or reviewing your application materials — contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
