The START Fellowship Accelerator, based in Switzerland, has opened applications for its upcoming program, offering a transformative opportunity for young entrepreneurs from Latin America and Africa. Designed to immerse founders in the European startup ecosystem, this unique program spans 3.5 months and provides a blend of mentoring, coaching, networking, and funding opportunities to propel startups toward exponential growth.

Program Overview

• Duration: 3.5 months (starting February 2, 2025)

• Location: Switzerland

• Focus: Empowering young founders from Latin America and Africa

• Equity-Free: Yes

• Program Start: Pre-Accelerator in December 2024; Accelerator begins February 2025

Key Benefits

The START Fellowship Accelerator offers a comprehensive range of benefits to participating startups, including:

• Immersive Input Sessions: Attend classes at the prestigious University of St. Gallen, where industry experts and investors will provide actionable insights to elevate your startup.

• Equity-Free Funding Opportunities: Access potential investments to fuel growth without giving up equity.

• Pitching Opportunities: Present your startup directly to leading investors and receive valuable feedback to refine your business model.

• Workshops and Mentorship: Participate in interactive workshops led by experienced entrepreneurs in areas such as fundraising, marketing, sales, and human resources. Gain tailored advice through bi-weekly mentoring sessions with two dedicated mentors guiding your journey.

• Networking: Build connections with like-minded entrepreneurs and key stakeholders in Europe’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

• Deep Dive Sessions: Receive personalized feedback in smaller group settings to focus on specific challenges your startup faces.

Unique Program Features

1. Hotspot Trips: Travel to Europe’s most dynamic startup hubs and meet with key stakeholders in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

2. Founder Stories: Learn from some of the most successful founders, who will share their entrepreneurial journeys and lessons through exclusive sessions.

3. Industry-Leading Speakers: Previous speakers include Maximiliano Casal (Nowports), Melanie Gabriel (Yokoy), Jan Brinckmann (ESADE), and Nicole Herzog (Entrepreneur & Business Angel).

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, participants must meet the following requirements:

• Be between 18-25 years old

• Be enrolled at a partner university in Latin America or Africa

• Be a co-founder of a startup with at least two members (solo founders are not eligible)

• Have an MVP or first prototype developed

• Demonstrate a commitment to entrepreneurship

• Recommended: Proficiency in English (C1 Level)

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: September 14, 2024

• First Round Interviews (Alumni Interviews): September 16 - 27, 2024

• Second Round Interviews (VC Interviews): September 23 - October 16, 2024

• Third Round Interviews (Team Interviews): October 7 - 17, 2024

• Final Selection: October 21, 2024

Aspiring founders can submit their applications for the START Fellowship Accelerator through the program’s website. With all expenses covered, this program offers an unparalleled chance to elevate your startup and gain the resources needed to succeed on a global scale. Apply by September 14, 2024, to secure your spot!

Embark on this exciting journey and accelerate your entrepreneurial dreams in Switzerland with the START Fellowship Accelerator!