Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) is developing a comprehensive AI hub in Wisconsin, designed as a convergence point for learning, industry, and innovation. A key component of this ecosystem is the gBETA AI Startup Accelerator at WCTC’s Applied AI Lab, operated in partnership with gener8tor. This seven-week program is tailored to help early-stage companies refine their products and business strategies through intensive mentorship and access to a wealth of resources, driving regional innovation and strengthening the local economy.
Program Overview
• Program Name: gBETA AI Startup Accelerator at WCTC’s Applied AI Lab
• Description: A free, seven-week pre-accelerator program for early-stage companies aiming for rapid growth and venture capital investment. The program is run by the nationally ranked accelerator gener8tor.
• Structure: Each cohort is capped at five teams to ensure a personalized, concierge approach. The program focuses on validating the company, growing customer traction, and preparing for investor pitches.
• Cost: Participation is free for selected companies, with no fees or equity taken, thanks to the support of program partners.
Participant Benefits
• Coaching and Mentorship: Participants receive individualized coaching and mentorship from the gener8tor team focused on company growth and investor readiness.
• Networking: The program provides access to gener8tor’s national network of entrepreneurs, mentors, and investors, including warm introductions to relevant contacts.
• Deals and Perks: Participants gain access to over $1M in deals and perks from vendors such as IBM Cloud, Rackspace, Amazon, PayPal, Zendesk, HubSpot, and Microsoft.
• Media and Community Support: Participants benefit from increased media exposure and strengthened support from community and business leaders.
• Post-Program Support: Graduates receive ongoing support, including continued access to the gener8tor network, events, and resources for the lifetime of their business. This includes consideration for investment accelerators, gener8tor conferences, and Lightning Rounds.
Eligibility and Commitment
• Location: The program is designed for early-stage companies with local roots in Waukesha County, WI.
• Program Commitment: Founders are expected to commit to at least 85% of programming, requiring a minimum of 5–7 hours per week, excluding independent work on their business.
• Founder Profile: Ideal candidates are coachable, open to feedback, and responsive in a fast-paced environment. They should be prepared to discuss their business openly with mentors and investors.
• Business Stage: The program accepts companies that are pre-revenue as well as those generating revenue. Applicants should be ready to scale sales and actively consider fundraising.
Program Timeline
• Program Kick-Off: A 1.5-day event featuring team-building, introductory content, and initial one-on-one meetings with the gBETA Program Manager.
• Weeks 1–6: Includes two 1-hour weekly strategy meetings, weekly 1-hour “Lunch & Learns” on key business topics, and weekly 2-hour “Mentor Swarms” providing introductions to approximately 30 mentors.
• Week 7: Features “Investor Swarms,” curated one-on-one pitch meetings with over 25 investors.
• Showcase: The program concludes with a final celebration event where founders deliver live pitches and network with mentors, investors, and potential customers.
Application Details
• Application Process: Applicants must complete an online application. The selection process may include one or two interview rounds, including a prepared pitch, before final decisions are made.
• Office Hours: Prospective applicants are encouraged to sign up for office hours to meet with the program director and ask questions.
• Intellectual Property: Application data is treated as confidential. However, due to the high volume of applications, NDAs are not signed. Applicants are advised to share only information they are comfortable disclosing.
The gBETA AI Startup Accelerator at WCTC’s Applied AI Lab represents a significant opportunity for early-stage companies rooted in Waukesha County. By providing direct access to expert mentorship, a national network, and a structured path toward investment readiness, the program serves as a critical launchpad for startups poised for rapid growth. Its ultimate goal is to prepare graduates to participate in an investment accelerator or successfully raise a seed round, contributing to the vitality of the regional tech ecosystem.