Description
Techstars Space Accelerator is a 3-month, mentorship-driven accelerator program run by Techstars in partnership with major aerospace ecosystem leaders including the U.S. Space Force and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). It focuses on space technology, aerospace innovation, and adjacent technology sectors that can apply commercially into the expanding space economy, such as autonomy, robotics, AI/ML, sensors, robotics, and systems relevant to space platforms and terrestrial markets.
Specific Program / Funding Stage
Early Stage / Pre-Seed to Seed (Primary Focus)
- The Space Accelerator is tailored to early-stage startups (pre-seed to seed) that are developing space tech or dual-use technologies with compelling aerospace and commercial applications.
- It is part of Techstars’ global accelerator network, where each program (vertical or location-focused) runs as a three-month cohort—structured around mentorship, workshops, and investor readiness.
Investment / Funding Model
Standard Techstars Accelerator Investment
Techstars typically offers a standardized investment deal to all companies accepted into its accelerator programs (including Space), structured like this:
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$220,000 Total Funding Commitment:
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$20,000 upfront in exchange for a fixed equity share (about 5% of common stock), via a Post-Money Convertible Equity Agreement (CEA).
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$200,000 via an uncapped MFN SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity), which converts at the company’s next priced financing round under the most-favored-nation terms.
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No participation fees — joining the accelerator and receiving funding does not require a direct fee payment from startups.
- The SAFE’s equity outcome varies with future valuation and terms, while the $20K/5% equity component is clearer (5% common equity on a qualified round).
This investment reflects Techstars’ broader accelerator model, so even though the Space Accelerator is vertical-focused (space/aerospace), the financial terms align with Techstars’ global accelerator standards.
Equity / Ownership Structure
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Equity Taken: Yes — Techstars receives 5% common equity in exchange for the $20K investment component at the qualified financing event.
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SAFE Component: The additional $200K is structured via an uncapped MFN SAFE, which means equity is realized later based on next qualified round terms, but does not guarantee a fixed ownership percentage like the $20K portion does.
- This model gives Techstars a founder-friendly structure with predictable upfront equity and future conversion potential based on competitive financing terms.
Application / Submission Method
How to Apply
- Startups apply to participate via the Techstars website during open application windows specific to the Space Accelerator cohort.
- The application process usually involves an online form covering team, product, traction, and market fit; then selected startups may be interviewed before cohort offers are extended.
Selection & Interview Process
- Techstars programs are competitive, often accepting a small percentage of applicants (generally ~1–2% overall for typical Techstars programs).
