Description
Manos Accelerator is a mentorship-driven startup accelerator based in San Jose, California (Silicon Valley) that supports early-stage technology startups, with a special emphasis on Latino-led and emerging founder teams. It provides resources, business guidance, networking, and structured programming to help founders validate their products, refine business models, and accelerate growth within the Silicon Valley ecosystem.
Specific Program Stage
Pre-Seed / Early-Stage (Core Focus)
- Manos is designed for early-stage startup companies, typically those that:
- Have an existing prototype or early tech product
- Are ready to refine business strategy and execution
- Can commit full-time participation during the accelerator period
- Programs are cohort-based (many selected teams per cycle) and involve structured mentorship, design thinking bootcamps, workshops, and a Demo Day where founders present to investors.
Investment / Funding Model
Capital / Equity Terms
- According to Manos Accelerator’s publicly available FAQ, the program does not take equity from participating startups as a condition of participation.
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As of the current program details, Manos does not directly provide startup funding; instead, it offers access to mentorship, business resources, and investor networking.
- Manos leverages its Silicon Valley connections to introduce founders to external investors, but it does not function as a seed VC fund in itself.
Note: Some third-party websites reference potential funding ranges, but these are not confirmed by Manos directly — they may refer to external networks or third-party partners rather than the core accelerator. Always verify with the official program for up-to-date funding terms.
Equity Structure
- The core accelerator participation is designed to be non-dilutive — that is, Manos does not require startups to give up equity to join the program.
- Any investment discussions or deals that happen afterward (with angels, VCs, or external partners) are negotiated independently between the founder and those investors.
Application / Submission Method
How to Apply
- Founders can apply via the official online application form on the Manos Accelerator website.
- The process typically involves submitting company details, team information, product/prototype description, and market potential.
Selection Process
- Manos selects early-stage teams that are ready to grow, often prioritizing Latino or diverse founder teams while being open to any qualifying early-stage startup.
Eligibility
Sector Focus
- Broadly tech-oriented and software-driven startups, including (per public profiles):
- Mobile applications
- Education tech
- Enterprise solutions
- Media & entertainment tech
- Healthcare, AR/VR, AI/ML, IoT and related areas
Stage
- Pre-seed / early product stage
- Ideally, companies with a prototype or MVP and a small founding team with capacity to commit full-time during the program.
Team Profile
- Founders with clear execution ability and a drive to scale within the Silicon Valley ecosystem.
- While priority is placed on Latino founders, the accelerator also supports diverse founders from emerging markets.
Geography
- Based in San Jose, CA, USA, but open to international applicants who can participate virtually and/or in person when required.
Process
Application Submission: Founders submit online with team and product details.
Review & Selection: Manos reviews for fit — founder strength, prototype readiness, market potential.
Orientation & Bootcamp: Selected teams begin with intensive training (business fundamentals & design thinking).
Mentoring & Workshops: Ongoing group and one-on-one mentorship sessions.
Demo Day: Culminating event where founders pitch to investors and ecosystem stakeholders.
What an Applicant can Obtain
Mentorship & Coaching: One-on-one guidance from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts.
Business Development Support: Workshops on product development, sales strategy, go-to-market planning, and more.
Network & Ecosystem Access: Connections with Silicon Valley investors, executives, and technology community.
Demo Day Exposure: Opportunity to pitch directly to investors at the culmination of the program.
Peer Community: Access to a community of founders and alumni.
