Acceleprise is a well-known startup accelerator that focuses on helping early-stage companies, especially in the technology sector. Founded in 2012, it provides support and funding to startups, aiming to boost their growth and success. This article will explore Acceleprise’s mission, investment strategies, notable portfolio companies, and more.
Key Takeaways
- Acceleprise was founded in 2012 and is based in Washington, D.C.
- The firm focuses on seed and early-stage investments, primarily in tech and SaaS sectors.
- Notable companies in their portfolio include ExecOnline and Allbound.
- Acceleprise has partnered with over 141 investors in its various funding rounds.
- They offer mentorship programs to help startups grow and succeed.
Overview of Acceleprise
Founding and Mission
Founded in 2012, Acceleprise is an accelerator based in Washington, DC. Our mission is to support early-stage companies, especially in the SaaS sector. We aim to provide startups with the resources they need to grow and succeed.
Geographic Focus
Acceleprise primarily invests in companies located in:
- United States
- Canada
- Other select regions
Industry Focus
We focus on various industries, including:
- Enterprise Software
- FinTech
- Healthcare Technology
- Artificial Intelligence
- E-Commerce
At Acceleprise, we believe in the power of technology to transform industries and improve lives. Our goal is to nurture innovative ideas that can make a difference.
Investment Strategy and Focus
Stages of Investment
Acceleprise focuses on early-stage investments, primarily in the seed and Series A rounds. This means they like to get involved when companies are just starting out or are ready to grow but need some extra support. By investing early, they can help shape the future of these companies.
Sector Preferences
Acceleprise has a keen interest in several sectors, including:
- SaaS (Software as a Service)
- Healthcare Technology
- FinTech (Financial Technology)
- Artificial Intelligence
- E-Commerce
These areas are where they see a lot of potential for growth and innovation.
Geographic Preferences
While Acceleprise is based in the United States, they also look for opportunities in:
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Australia
They believe that great ideas can come from anywhere, so they keep their eyes open for promising startups in these regions.
Investing in the right stage and sector can make all the difference for a startup’s success. Acceleprise aims to be that guiding hand.
Portfolio Highlights
Notable Investments
Acceleprise has made some impressive investments in various companies. Here are a few that stand out:
- ExecOnline: A leader in online executive training.
- Allbound: A channel sales automation solution that has gained significant traction.
- Sprout: A cloud-based platform for HR management.
Recent Investments
In the past year, Acceleprise has focused on innovative startups. Some of the recent investments include:
- Fireflies: A cloud-based meeting assistant that helps teams stay organized.
- Indio: A SaaS solution for insurance brokers, making their work easier.
- Orbiit: A platform aimed at automating online community interactions.
Portfolio Exits
Acceleprise has successfully exited from several investments, showcasing their ability to identify promising companies. Notable exits include:
| Company Name | Description | Total Funding | Year Founded | Exit Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allbound | Channel sales automation solution | $8.98M | 2014 | Acquired (2022) |
| DivvyCloud | Hybrid cloud management software | $29.9M | 2013 | Acquired (2020) |
| StayNTouch | Property management software | $60.8M | 2012 | Acquired (2020) |
Acceleprise’s portfolio reflects a strong commitment to supporting innovative SaaS companies. Their strategic investments have led to significant growth and successful exits.
Acceleprise Team
Key Partners
Acceleprise has a strong team of three partners who lead the way in guiding startups. The key partners include:
- Michael Cardamone
- Collin Gutman
- [Third Partner’s Name]
Advisory Board
The advisory board plays a crucial role in shaping the direction of Acceleprise. They bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. Some notable members include:
- [Advisory Board Member 1]
- [Advisory Board Member 2]
- [Advisory Board Member 3]
Team Expansion
Acceleprise is always looking to grow. Recently, they have expanded their team to better support their startups. This includes hiring new mentors and program directors to enhance their accelerator programs.
"A strong team is the backbone of any successful accelerator. We believe in nurturing talent and fostering innovation."
In summary, the Acceleprise team is dedicated to helping startups succeed through mentorship and guidance.
Co-Investors and Partnerships
Top Co-Investors
Over the years, I’ve seen that Acceleprise has partnered with a variety of investors. Here are some key points:
- 141 investors have co-invested in Acceleprise’s portfolio companies.
- Notable co-investors include Concur, which has invested in 1 company alongside Acceleprise.
- Other significant co-investors are Right Side Capital Management and 500 Global, who invested in rounds before Acceleprise.
Strategic Partnerships
Acceleprise has built strong relationships with several organizations. These partnerships help in providing better resources and support to the startups. Some of the key partners include:
- Center for Innovative Technology – invested in 2 companies after Acceleprise.
- Forum Ventures – also invested in 2 companies post-Acceleprise.
- Bread and Butter Ventures – a notable partner in recent funding rounds.
Collaborative Investments
In the world of startups, collaboration is key. Acceleprise has worked with many investors to support their portfolio companies. Here’s a quick look at some recent collaborative investments:
| Date | Company | Round | Amount | Co-Investors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 28, 2021 | Orbiit | Seed | $2.7M | Bread and Butter Ventures, LAUNCHUB |
| Feb 10, 2021 | Lang | Seed | $2M | Village Global, Oceans |
| Feb 25, 2021 | Elevate Brands | Series A | $55M | FJ Labs, Pandu Sjahrir |
Working together with other investors not only strengthens Acceleprise’s portfolio but also enhances the support provided to startups.
In summary, Acceleprise’s network of co-investors and partners plays a crucial role in its success. By collaborating with various investors, they ensure that their portfolio companies receive the best possible support.
Acceleprise in the News
Recent News Highlights
Acceleprise has been making waves in the startup world lately. They recently announced plans to expand their accelerator program into Toronto. This move shows their commitment to helping startups grow in new regions.
Media Coverage
The media has been buzzing about Acceleprise’s investments. For instance, they were featured in TechCrunch for their role in funding Orbiit, which raised $2.7 million in seed funding. This highlights their active participation in the startup ecosystem.
Press Releases
In their latest press release, Acceleprise shared that they are hiring a Program Director for their new Toronto accelerator. This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about supporting startups.
Acceleprise is not just about funding; they are about building a community of innovators.
Here are some notable investments and news from Acceleprise:
- Orbiit: Raised $2.7M in seed funding.
- Lang.ai: Secured $2M to simplify AI for businesses.
- Polymer Solutions: Closed $1M in seed funding.
These highlights show how Acceleprise is actively shaping the future of startups.
Acceleprise Programs and Initiatives
Accelerator Programs
Acceleprise runs a four-month accelerator program designed to help startups grow. This program offers hands-on mentorship and access to a network of experienced operators. Here are some key features of the program:
- Mentorship: Startups receive guidance from industry experts.
- Networking: Participants connect with other entrepreneurs and investors.
- Workshops: Regular sessions cover essential topics like marketing and fundraising.
Mentorship Initiatives
In addition to the accelerator, Acceleprise has various mentorship initiatives. These initiatives aim to support startups even after they complete the program. Some of the benefits include:
- Ongoing Support: Founders can reach out for advice as they grow.
- Alumni Network: Graduates can connect with each other for collaboration.
- Resource Sharing: Access to tools and resources that can help in their journey.
Community Engagement
Acceleprise believes in giving back to the community. They engage in several activities to support local startups and entrepreneurs:
- Workshops and Events: Hosting events to educate and inspire.
- Partnerships: Collaborating with local organizations to boost the startup ecosystem.
- Funding Opportunities: Providing information on grants and funding sources for startups.
Acceleprise is committed to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs through its programs and initiatives.
Conclusion
In summary, Acceleprise stands out as a key player in the startup investment scene. Founded in 2012, this Washington, D.C.-based accelerator has built a diverse portfolio of 96 companies, focusing mainly on technology and SaaS sectors. With a hands-on approach, Acceleprise not only provides funding but also valuable mentorship to startups. Their recent investments, such as the $2.7 million seed round for Orbiit, highlight their commitment to nurturing innovative ideas. As they continue to expand their reach, Acceleprise remains a vital resource for emerging businesses looking to thrive in today’s competitive market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acceleprise?
Acceleprise is a startup accelerator that helps new companies grow, especially in technology and software.
Where is Acceleprise located?
Acceleprise is based in Washington, D.C., but it also invests in companies across the United States and Canada.
What types of companies does Acceleprise invest in?
They mainly invest in technology companies, especially those focused on software as a service (SaaS).
What kind of support does Acceleprise offer to startups?
Acceleprise provides mentorship, resources, and a four-month program to help startups develop their businesses.
How many companies are in Acceleprise’s portfolio?
Acceleprise has invested in 96 companies so far.
What is the latest investment made by Acceleprise?
The most recent investment was in a company called Orbiit, which received funding in May 2021.
