The Berkeley SkyDeck accelerator is now open to startup founders from outside the University of California at Berkeley community for Batch 19.
Berkeley SkyDeck is expanding its reach to founders across the U.S. and international entrepreneurs, marking a significant shift in the application process for the accelerator.
Amidst questions about the value of accelerators, Berkeley SkyDeck aims to provide a more inclusive platform for innovation and startup development. Caroline Winnett, the executive director, and Chon Tang, founding partner of the Berkeley SkyDeck Fund, are confident that this change will lead to a broader range of high-quality startups and increased global participation.
In an interview with GamesBeat, Winnett emphasized that the new application process will allow for a more diverse pool of applicants, potentially resulting in a stronger accelerator cohort.
Applications for Batch 19 are open with a deadline of August 23. You can apply here.
Two new track chairs
Batch 19 will introduce two new track chairs, Alberto Sangiovanni-Vincentelli for the Chip Track and Heather Koshinsky for the Bio Track, bringing rich experience and expertise to the program.
Sangiovanni-Vincentelli and Koshinsky have a proven track record of success in their respective fields, making them valuable additions to the Berkeley SkyDeck team.
Other tracks in the program include air and space, fintech and blockchain, and climate tech, leveraging the vast network of UC Berkeley for valuable insights and connections.
As applications open to a wider audience, Berkeley SkyDeck aims to attract diverse and innovative startups, harnessing the expertise of its advisors and the rich entrepreneurial ecosystem on the Berkeley campus.
With an acceptance rate of around 1%, Berkeley SkyDeck offers a competitive platform for startups, providing funding, resources, and access to a vast network of mentors and industry partners.
The success of the Berkeley SkyDeck Fund in investing in startups from various countries has further solidified its position as a leading accelerator and investor in the global startup ecosystem.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join Batch 19, apply by August 23 here.