BASE Startup Accelerator 2026-2027

About

A nine-month virtual startup accelerator designed to empower student and early-stage founders with legal, business, and entrepreneurial guidance, culminating in a pitch competition to showcase their ventures to investors and mentors.

Benefits

• 💼Legal Support
  Participants receive $10,000 of pro bono in-kind legal support from Ballard Spahr attorneys.
• 🤝Mentorship
  Access to mentorship and guidance from experienced attorneys and venture professionals.
• 🌐Networking Opportunities
  Connections to a broader ecosystem of venture professionals and alumni for enhanced credibility.
• 📈Pitch Competition
  Opportunity to present in a Shark Tank-style pitch competition before investors and judges.
• 🎓Educational Resources
  Comprehensive training and resources to help founders build, fund, and scale their ventures.

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to student and early-stage founders
• Must be working on a startup venture
• No cost to participate in the program
• Participants must be willing to engage in a pitch competition at the end of the program
• Must be able to commit to the nine-month program duration

Participation Commitments

• Must attend all scheduled program events over the nine-month period
• Must actively participate in mentorship sessions and networking opportunities
• Must prepare and deliver a pitch at the final competition
• Commit to engaging with the program's resources and support throughout the duration

Target Sector

Startup and Entrepreneurship

Target Location

Open to participants from various locations, focusing on student and early-stage entrepreneurs