Blue Ridge Labs Catalyst 2027: $100,000 Accelerator for Pre-Seed Startups and Tech Nonprofits
Blue Ridge Labs Catalyst is a 16-week intensive accelerator by Robin Hood supporting early-stage ventures that use technology to advance economic mobility in New York City and beyond. Selected participants receive $100,000 in investment or grant support alongside tailored coaching, networking opportunities, and community insights.
Overview
Blue Ridge Labs Catalyst is Robin Hood's signature 16-week accelerator program tailored for pre-seed startups and technology nonprofits that have already moved past the idea stage. The program focuses on ventures utilizing software, artificial intelligence, and data to address poverty, economic inequality, and barriers to economic mobility for low-income communities. The 2027 cohort offers a bespoke growth experience split into two phases running from February through June 2027 in Union Square, New York City.
Benefits
- Financial Support: Selected ventures receive $100,000 structured as an investment for for-profit companies or a grant for nonprofits, with potential eligibility for follow-on funding.
- Tailored Coaching: Founders receive mentorship and guidance across finance, product development, engineering, sales, marketing, fundraising, and storytelling.
- Community Insights: Participants gain access to Robin Hood's Design Insight Group to incorporate the lived experiences of New Yorkers into product development.
- Network Access: Connect directly with an extensive community of 295 partner organizations, alumni founders, and potential investors.
Eligibility
- Open to pre-seed startups and early-stage technology nonprofits with a working product or minimum viable product (MVP) and early traction.
- Ventures must focus on scalable technology solutions—including software, AI, and data—connected to economic mobility and low-income populations.
- Companies must not have earned more than $150,000 in total revenue during any given 12-month period.
- Total funding raised must not exceed $500,000, excluding grants.
- Founders must possess the technical capacity to build their product or include a technical co-founder on the team.
- Solo founders and small teams are welcome; prior accelerator participation or existing funding does not disqualify applicants.
- Incorporation is not mandatory at the time of application, but accepted ventures must incorporate immediately.
How to Apply
Interested founders should prepare details concerning their product, target users, traction, and social impact before submitting a formal application. Applications must be completed online through the designated application portal.
Deadline
Applications for the 2027 Catalyst cohort close on November 13, 2026.