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Grid110

Grid110 is an economic and community development non-profit dedicated to creating clear pathways to success for early-stage entrepreneurs.

Los Angeles, CA, USA

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Description

Grid110 is a non-profit accelerator and community development organization based in Los Angeles, California, USA that helps early-stage founders and small business owners build sustainable, growing ventures. Its mission is to expand access and equity in entrepreneurship — especially for women, founders of color, LGBTQIA+ founders, and others often overlooked by traditional startup ecosystems. The organization operates non-equity, no-fee programs with mentorship, tailored curriculum, and community support. 

Specific Program / Funding Stage
Multi-Stage Early Entrepreneur Support
Grid110 provides cohort-based accelerator programs for founders across a spectrum of early stages:

  • Idea to Launch Bootcamp: ~6-week program for idea or early concept founders to validate and move toward a functional product/service. 

  • Launchpad Accelerator: ~10-week program for LA-based businesses with a functional product/service ready to refine and grow. 

  • Community Business Accelerator: ~16-week program for community-focused ventures with some traction, building sustainable revenue and operational strategy. 

  • Residency Program: ~12-week cohort for founders with MVP/traction to deepen skills and prepare for next growth steps. 

Unlike typical venture accelerators, Grid110’s programming spans idea formation through early growth, with each track tailored to where a founder currently is. 

Investment / Funding Model
No Equity / No Fees

  • Grid110 does not take equity from participating startups, nor does it charge program fees. 

  • The programs are free for accepted founders, supported through nonprofit grants and community investment. 

Capital Access Support

  • While Grid110 itself does not invest, it connects founders to capital ecosystems, including:

    • Investor networks

    • Workshops on fundraising roadmaps

    • Pitch coaching

    • Connections to other accelerators and VC opportunities

  • Some participants have subsequently gone on to raise funding, join major accelerator programs, or attract external investment. 

Additionally, Grid110 has partnered with other organizations (e.g., Slauson & Co.) on specialized programs like Friends & Family, where founders can receive non-dilutive grants (e.g., $20K–$25K) with no equity requirements, along with mentorship. 

Equity / Ownership Structure
  • Equity Required: None — Grid110 does not take equity for participation in any of its core accelerator programs. 

  • Founders retain 100% ownership of their ventures.

  • Any later investment or capitalization comes from external investors or grant programs the founder pursues independently.

Application / Submission Method
How to Apply

  • Founders apply through Grid110’s online application portal during open calls for each program. 

  • Programs typically track cohort cycles, with applications specifying a targeted launch date (e.g., March–July for Community Business Accelerator). 

Selection

  • Grid110 selects startups based on stage fit for specific tracks (e.g., idea stage vs. post-launch), founder commitment, community focus, and potential for sustainable growth.

Eligibility

Sector Focus

  • Sector-agnostic: Works across industries — from SaaS and tech to community businesses and creative ventures — as long as entrepreneurial intent and readiness align with the program track. 

Geography

  • Founders must be based in Los Angeles (or operating primarily in the City of LA / LA County) to participate in most core programs. 

Stage

  • From idea / very early stage (Idea to Launch Bootcamp)

  • To early revenue or traction stage (Launchpad, Community Business Accelerator, Residency) 

Founder Profile

  • Teams or solo founders with:

    • A vision to grow a sustainable business

    • Early validation (depending on the track)

    • Commitment to the LA ecosystem and/or community impact (especially for community-oriented programs) 

Process

  1. Application & Screening: Founders submit background and business info during open call. 

  2. Selection: Grid110 selects cohorts based on fit for the specific track and founder readiness.

  3. Program Engagement: Weekly live sessions, mentoring, and assignments over 6–16 weeks. 

  4. Community & Follow-Up: Ongoing community support and networking post-completion.

What an Applicant can Obtain

Structured Learning: Live cohort sessions + self-directed learning tailored to business maturity. 

Mentorship: Personalized guidance from experienced founders, community leaders, and domain experts. 

Community & Network: Access to a diverse founder community with peer support and alumni networks. 

Perks & Resources: Tools, partner perks, and programming support valued at thousands of dollars (varies by cohort). 

Fundraising Prep: Coaching on pitching, financial models, and connecting to investors/VCs post-program. 

Non-Dilutive Grant Opportunities: Through special partner initiatives like Friends & Family (optional — not core program).