UNB Institute Seeks Startups With A Bigger Vision Than The Bottom Line
FREDERICTON – Applications are now open for early-stage startups interested in being part of The Summer Institute‘s 2020 cohort.
“The Summer Institute is designed to help early-stage companies with a big vision that encompasses more than just the bottom line,” said Summer Institute Managing Director Joe Allen in a press release.
“We look for early-stage ventures that want to make a social impact, as well an impact to their bottom line. It’s an amazing feeling to see these companies and founders grow and meet the potential we see in them,” he said.
The 12-week accelerator based in Fredericton accepts five to seven companies each year. The 2020 program will run from April 27 to July 16. The deadline for applications is February 15.
Successful applicants will be enrolled in the intensive, globally recognized program that offers stipends for living expenses, prototyping grants, access to their downtown workspace, and intense, mentor-led programming aimed at developing sustainable and profitable companies.
Run by the University of New Brunswick’s J Herbert Smith Centre for Technology Management & Entrepreneurship, The Summer Institute has helped launch more than 35 companies since its first cohort in 2014.
While it’s not restricted to companies from a particular region or sector, it has historically focused on accelerating businesses with an innovative consumer product or service. Stash Energy, Koffee Organics, UpFront Cosmetics, and Educated Beards are among the accelerator’s alumni.
“The Summer Institute has made such a huge difference in my business and my personal growth,” said UpFront Cosmetics Founder Alicia Sharp in a release. “I was able to make my vision laser-sharp and grow my business more in 12 weeks of the program than I had in the previous 12 months on my own and my growth since the program has been astronomical.”
The Summer Institute is a member of the Global Accelerator Network, an invite-only community of top organizations that provide resources to startups to create and grow their businesses.