An accelerator for research teams building deep tech startups coming out of the University of Colorado campuses in Boulder, Colorado Springs and Denver.

Deep tech startups, or new companies based on technological innovation in science or engineering, face unique challenges because of their disruptive nature, intensive research and development, and significant capital requirements. Ascent understands the needs and pathways for deep tech startups to find early success.

Leveraging ecosystem experts, a robust mentor network and Venture Partners staff, early-stage companies will accelerate their viability and traction over four months. Teams will work toward milestones focused on company formation, paths to market, entrepreneurial finance and fundraising, ultimately preparing them for a final pitch to a community of investors, entrepreneurs and industry experts at the Ascent Investor Showcase. Read about the 2022 and 2023 cohorts.

Attend the Ascent Investor Showcase

The Ascent Investor Showcase will bring together researchers, investors and community supporters to highlight innovative startups emerging from Colorado laboratories. Attendees will see five-minute pitches from each startup, followed by a virtual, interactive Q&A. Check back soon for more information about this year's startups.

Thursday, June 20, 1:30-6:30 p.m.
BaseCamp at the Pearl East Innovation Campus, 4909 Pearl E Cir, Boulder

The showcase is free with registration. Attendees must register in advance; seating is very limited, and at-the-door registration is not guaranteed. Light refreshments will be served. Log in to your Eventbrite account to check or edit your registration.

Register Now

Apply to join the accelerator

Program dates

Held virtually, Jan.-May

Time commitment

Commitment

We expect this program to take 3-5 hours a week of your time.

  • At least one team member is expected to attend every session
  • Weekly check-ins with your Ascent mentor
  • Monthly completion of in-program deliverables

Eligibility

  • Teams are working to commercialize technologies based on engineering innovation or scientific discoveries
  • Teams have submitted an invention disclosure to Venture Partners
  • Teams have completed significant customer discovery in their target market, ideally through Venture Partners' I-Corps™ Hub: West programs.

How to apply

The application for the 2024 accelerator is closed. Information about the 2025 accelerator will be posted soon. Sign up for updates