[Zoom] Mastering the Techstars Application: Group Office Hours

​Group Office Hours

​Join our group office hours with the program team of Techstars NYC to hear from insiders about concrete, actionable changes you can make to improve your application and give you an edge.

Before the session, start your startup application for our New York program here

​Then read and duplicate the Techstars Application Guide google doc.

​FAQ

​Let's get started with some of the most frequently asked questions:

Q: How much does Techstars invest and at what terms?
A: Techstars' investment is $220,000, and the capital comes with all the benefits of our 3-month mentorship-driven accelerator program, valuable perks from our partners, and access to our world-class network of investors, partners, mentors, and alumni.

​The $220,000 offer comprises two components, including $200,000 through an uncapped MFN SAFE and $20,000 through a Post-Money Convertible Common Equity Agreement (CEA). The total equity Techstars receives will be 5% of the company in common stock plus the future value of the $200,000 uncapped MFN Safe. For example, if your next round is valued at $20M pre-money, the $200,000 MFN Safe would then convert into 1% additional ownership at that time.

​Q: What do you look for in founders for the New York City program?
A: We look for founders who deeply understand their customers' pain, demonstrate the ability to execute quickly, and build in a market large enough to make $1B+ in annual revenue possible.

Q: I am working/studying right now; can I still participate in Techstars?
A: You don't have to be full-time to apply to Techstars; however, if accepted into the program, we expect you'll dedicate full exclusivity to your startup with no other academic or work engagements.

Q: I'm very busy running my company and don't have time for an accelerator. How much time does Techstars take?
A: The Techstars programs in NYC are not school; we custom-tailor the program to your most immediate obstacles so that you can crush obstacles along the way and get to Product-Market Fit faster. Any time you spend with your mentors and program staff will be to help you do two years' worth of work in three months.

​Q: I have already closed or will soon close a round of funding. Am I too late-stage for Techstars?
A: Many of our founders secure between $1M and $5M in funding before the program begins. Our Uncapped MFN SAFE ensures that Techstars aligns with any past or present investments, allowing us to boost your company’s success regardless of your starting stage in the program.

Q: What are the dates and format of the programs in NYC?
A: Our programs start in the first week of September, with Demo Day in December. We front-load content and mentor matching during the first two weeks, then personalize support for each company for the remainder of the program. The program is Hybrid, with in-person weeks at the beginning, one in the middle, and demo day at the end.

​Q: I am a founder outside the U.S.; can I still apply?
A: Yes! We believe great founders can come from anywhere! The NYC program is best suited for founders whose primary market is the U.S. We invest exclusively in Delaware C-Corporations.