HACKCELER8
Hackceler8 is an accelerator devoted to ventures exploring the uncharted territories of science, technology, and innovation. We cultivate and propel ideas that others may consider “looney” or impossible. Hackceler8 curates, nurtures, and accelerates groundbreaking deep tech startups, daring to challenge the status quo, and pushing the boundaries of what’s achievable.
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8 Focus Areas
We nurture startups in Deep tech technologies that are based on substantial scientific or engineering innovations and breakthroughs. We seek startups focused on disruptive solutions in these 8 focus areas - AI-driven innovations, Advanced Biotechnology, Quantum Computing, Space Exploration, Materials Science, Drone Technology, Clean Energy, and Advanced Robotics.
Space Exploration
Startups in this category are dedicated to advancing technologies related to space travel, satellite systems, asteroid mining, habitat development, propulsion systems, or any innovation geared towards exploring, inhabiting, or utilizing outer space.
AI Innovation
This category is for startups leveraging artificial intelligence, machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, or other AI-related technologies to create innovative solutions across various industries, including healthcare, finance, manufacturing, or personalized services.
Advanced Robotics
Startups focused on developing cutting-edge robotic systems, including autonomous machines, industrial automation, medical & military robots, exoskeletons, or AI-powered robots for specific applications such as logistics, healthcare, manufacturing, or exploration, fall under this category.
Biotechnology
This category encompasses startups involved in groundbreaking biotech innovations like gene editing, personalized medicine, regenerative therapies, bioinformatics, or advancements in agriculture, aiming to revolutionize healthcare, food production, and sustainability.
Clean Energy
Startups dedicated to renewable energy sources, energy storage solutions, smart grids, sustainable transportation, or novel technologies promoting environmental conservation and reducing carbon footprints belong to this category.
Quantum Computing
This category is for startups focusing on quantum computing, quantum cryptography, quantum algorithms, or related hardware and software advancements, aiming to transform computational power and solve complex problems.
Drone Tech
Startups involved in developing advanced drone technologies, including applications in delivery services, aerial mapping, surveillance, agriculture, infrastructure inspection, or disaster management, fall within this category.
Materials Science
Startups innovating in materials science, such as new materials development, nanotechnology, smart materials, biomaterials, or applications in electronics, construction, healthcare, or manufacturing, are a perfect fit for this category.
What happens at Hackceler8
Hackceler8 hosts two 4-month programs:
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April through July
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August through November
The goal of Hackceler8 is to help startups take off. Startups arrive at Hackceler8 at all different stages. Some haven’t even started working yet, and others have been launched for a year or more. But whatever stage a startup is at when they arrive, our goal is to help them to be in dramatically better shape 4 months later.
Cohort Duration: 16 weeks (4 months)
Next Cohort starts from: April, 2025
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Why Hackceler8
We believe that the boldest ideas are the ones that drive true transformation. We encourage startups aiming for moonshots, challenging them to dream big and aim higher.
- Hands-On Support: Each selected startup receives personalized guidance, expert mentorship, and access to a vast network of industry leaders, scientists, and investors dedicated to nurturing groundbreaking innovations.
- Fearless Innovation: Hackceler8 doesn’t shy away from the ‘impossible.’ Instead, we embrace the uncharted, providing a safe haven for radical ideas to flourish and become the game-changers of tomorrow.
- Focused Attention: With a selective intake of only eight startups per cohort, each team receives unparalleled attention, resources, and tailored support to accelerate their vision.
8 Stages of Hackceler8
Hackceler8 follows a structured approach designed to help startups grow and succeed. The main stages of Hackceler8 program include:
Application & Selection
Startups interested in participating apply to the Hackceler8 program by submitting their business plans, pitches, or applications. The Hackceler8 team reviews applications and selects promising startups based on specific criteria such as innovation, market potential, team strength, and scalability.
Pre-Acceleration Preparation
Selected startups undergo an initial phase of preparation before the formal program begins. This may involve orientation sessions, goal-setting, mentor matching, and refining business models or pitches.
Curriculum & Bootcamp
Startups enter a structured curriculum or bootcamp phase where they participate in workshops, seminars, and mentorship sessions. Topics covered typically include business model validation, market research, product development, marketing strategies, finance, legal aspects, and investor readiness.
Mentorship & Networking
Startups receive guidance and support from experienced mentors and industry experts. Mentors provide valuable insights, advice, and networking opportunities. Networking events, pitch sessions, and interactions with potential investors, partners, and customers are organized to help startups expand their networks.
Product Development
Startups focus on refining their products or services based on feedback received during the program. Iterative development, testing, and validation are emphasized to improve the market fit and scalability of the offerings.
Demo Day Preparation
As the program nears its end, startups prepare for a demo day or pitch event where they showcase their progress, products, and business models to potential investors, venture capitalists, and other stakeholders.
Demo Day & Graduation
The Hackceler8 program culminates in a demo day event where startups present their pitches or demonstrations to a wider audience, aiming to secure funding, partnerships, or further support. Successful completion of the program results in a graduation ceremony, and startups may receive certificates or recognition for their achievements during the program.
Post-Acceleration Support
Hackceler8 continues it’s support and resources to alumni even after graduation. This includes access to additional mentorship, investor introductions, co-working spaces, or alumni networks.
The Deal
We have a standard deal for every company that is accepted into Hackceler8. We invest $100,000, and our investment gives us 8% of your company plus an incremental equity amount that will be fixed when you raise money from other investors. We also gets a right to continue to invest in subsequent rounds of financing you raise (a “pro rata” right).
How does the Math work:
- $25,000 of our investment converts into a fixed 8%, and the other $75,000 is invested on an uncapped MFN (Most Favored Nation) safe.
- Our $100K investment is made on 2 separate safes at the same time. We invest $25,000 on a post-money safe in return for 8% of your company (the “$25k safe”).
- The remaining $75,000 is invested on an uncapped safe with a Most Favored Nation (MFN) provision (the “MFN safe”).
Email us to know more.
Change the World!
Do you have a ‘crazy’ idea that could change the world?
Hackceler8 invites you to defy the ordinary and join us on a journey where limits are mere stepping stones to infinite possibilities.
Apply for upcoming Cohort