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Smart Mobility Technology - Accelerator

The Smart Mobility Tech Accelerator, created in partnership with SmartTO, supports market-ready automotive and smart mobility tech startups as they execute their go-to-market strategies, acquire customers, and prepare for fundraising.

Who is this program for?

This new program is tailored to founders who are working on an innovation or technology in smart mobility, including, but not limited to, smart materials and lightweighting, system reliability, battery testing, or Smart Grid Integration.

What to expect?

Leveraging the extensive expertise and infrastructure of YSpace, combined with access to the state-of-the-art labs, vehicles, facilities, and industry-leading automotive and mobility partners of SmartTO, participants can expect to:

• Develop and strengthen their knowledge on growth foundations and fundraising strategies through educational workshops and focused sprints.
• Engage with experienced mentors, program advisors, and industry experts to strategize and execute on their growth goals.
• Access over $60k in startup support and special startup perks.

Community

Participants will build connections with fellow entrepreneurs that share the same mindset and goals, gaining access to various events and programming to build long-lasting relationships with the community of 600+ founders.

R&D Support

Access to R&D support with a full suite of technologies, test vehicles, specialized equipment, and technical support, including access to Canada's largest on-site transportation training facility.

Leadership Development

The program will feature ample opportunities for hands-on experience, accountability sessions, customized mentorship, and dedicated growth hours with key partners in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Growth Frameworks

Develop the sales and marketing playbook needed to scale the venture, working with dedicated growth mentors who provide strategic and tactical guidance for founders to build their growth foundations.

Milestone Driven

The program is goal-driven, using proven frameworks that put founders in the driver's seat while helping them reach their end destination.

Timeline

• Applications open: June 17, 2024
• Applications close: July 31, 2024
• Program kick-off day: September 9, 2024
• Weekly sessions: September - January 2025
• Demo day: February 2025

Application Process

• Step one: Applications are submitted.
• Step two: Short-listed candidates are invited to interview in August.
• Step three: Candidates are finalized in August.

Program Eligibility

• Companies need to have an MVP launched in the market already with at least some early traction.
• Innovative tech products and high growth business potential.
• Driven, coachable, and collaborative founders with a growth mindset.
• This is a hybrid program, with the selected cohort expected to engage in 1 week of in-person activities each month.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who is the Smart Mobility Tech Accelerator designed for?
  • The program is designed for full-time founders who are driven, coachable, and have a growth mindset.
• Is there a specific industry or vertical that the accelerator focuses on?
  • Yes, the program welcomes entrepreneurs who are working on an innovation or technology in the areas of smart mobility.
• How much does the program cost? Do I have to give up equity?
  • The program is free, and no equity is taken.
• Is it only for York University students or alum?
  • The program is open to everyone in the community, as long as they are dedicated founders who are willing to put in the time and commitment to grow the venture.
• How much time will I have to commit?
  • The program runs from the beginning of September to the end of January, with a Demo Day scheduled for early February, requiring a minimum of 5 hours per week for workshops, mentorship sessions, and office hours.
• What are the different elements of the program?
  • Hands-on workshops on venture growth frameworks with leading industry experts.
  • Office hours with a private network of investors, industry experts, and growth advisors.
  • A dedicated EiR mentor that has insights into the industry that the venture is disrupting.
  • Engaging in an active community of over 700 ventures and like-minded peers supporting the journey.
• How many ventures will be chosen?
  • A maximum of 10 ventures will be chosen for the accelerator.
• How much value will I get out of the program?
  • The program offers over $60k worth of startup support via dedicated mentorship, exclusive startup perks, and office hours with growth mentors.
• What is the application process?
  • Applications are submitted, followed by interviews for short-listed candidates, and finalization of the cohort in August.
• When is the application due?
  • Applications will be accepted until July 31, 2024.
• What is the format of the program?
  • The program has a hybrid format, with the majority of the content delivered virtually and a blend of in-person components, requiring ventures to be on-site for 1 week of each month.