Launch Blue Announces Fifth Pre-Seed Accelerator Cohort

September 1, 2022

Launch Blue is pleased to announce that five promising technology startups will participate in its 12-week Fall 2022 Pre-Seed Accelerator.

This incoming cohort of startups includes three teams from Kentucky and two teams from outside the state. This is the second cohort where Launch Blue has expanded its services and accepted startups from outside Kentucky to participate in the program.

"Last spring, we experimented with opening up our Pre-Seed Accelerator to startups outside of Kentucky, while still prioritizing the Midwest and southeast regions of the United States," Launch Blue Executive Director Laura Halligan said. "We found that diversifying our cohort led to a positive experience for our members, and we look forward to continuing to serve startups across the U.S. as we know there is a need for education and support at this pivotal pre-seed stage."

Launch Blue’s Pre-Seed Accelerator began in 2020 for Kentucky-based companies only. As the Launch Blue team and leadership quickly realized the demand for the program outside of the state, the program was expanded to serve founders across the United States in the spring of 2022.

The Pre-Seed Accelerator is for individuals with technology-based startups that have the potential to grow into a highly scalable, profitable venture. Candidates were vetted through a competitive application and interview process, which placed an emphasis on traction and scalability. Launch Blue does not take equity in startups admitted to the program, however, applicants are tasked with raising $500, which covers the program fees, as part of the admission interview. The final selections for the Fall 2022 Cohort were determined by a selection committee that was appointed by the Launch Blue Advisory Board.

Starting in September, the startups will spend 12 weeks learning and applying the lean startup method while working to develop a scalable, repeatable business model while getting started on the path of seeking venture investment.

The Pre-Seed Accelerator takes place twice a year, once in the fall and once in the spring.

Launch Blue will begin taking applications for the upcoming Spring 2023 Cohort later this fall. (Click here to be notified when applications open)