Startup founders from underrepresented populations earn up to $50,000 in funding through the University of Missouri–St. Louis’ new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Accelerator.
The program, which started in fall 2020 accepts six founders into each cohort, is designed to boost early stage, scalable for-profit startups and companies that directly and positively impact under-served communities. The DEI Accelerator includes an eight-week business development program focused on supporting entrepreneurs from marginalized communities. Founders accepted in the first round of funding receive $50,000 in non-dilutive capital to support their businesses. They are also given access to a business development course, mentors, paid UMSL student interns, assistance with grant applications, technology support and incubator space.
The second cohort was selected in December 2021 and this group will conclude their participation in March 2022 with a demo day, allowing founders to showcase their businesses to community members, UMSL students and faculty and potential investors.
Article announcing DEI Accelerator
https://blogs.umsl.edu/news/2021/12/10/second-dei-cohort-announcement/
https://blogs.umsl.edu/news/2020/12/10/dei-accelerator-cohort/
https://blogs.umsl.edu/news/2020/10/09/dei-accelerator/
