The Techstars Founder Catalyst: WaterTech & Sustainability program is a 10-week, hybrid pre-accelerator designed for early-stage founders developing solutions in water technology, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability. The part-time experience offers immersive training, hands-on mentorship, and access to the global Techstars network, providing participants with the necessary tools and support to validate their ideas, understand customers, and accelerate their ventures. The program is delivered in a hybrid format, primarily virtual with two in-person elements in the Greater Tuscaloosa, AL area.
Program Focus and Structure
• Duration: 10 weeks.
• Format: Hybrid, primarily virtual with in-person components in Tuscaloosa, AL.
• Time Commitment: Approximately 10-15 hours per week, including masterclasses, mentor meetings, and peer group sessions.
• Core Topics: Product development, go-to-market strategy, fundraising fundamentals, pitch coaching, and pitch design.
• Sessions: Weekly masterclasses are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, along with networking events, which participants are expected to attend.
Founder Benefits
• Mentorship: Access to experienced entrepreneurs and subject-matter experts for 1:1 meetings and guidance.
• Network Access: Global connections across the Techstars network and engagement with key stakeholders from The University of Alabama.
• Community: Opportunities to engage with a supportive community of up to 25 founders in the cohort.
• Resources: Access to live virtual instruction, exclusive thought leadership, free tools, credits, and other resources to support business development.
• Pitch Development: Participants receive coaching to build pitch confidence, practice storytelling, and prepare for a final Pitch Day Showcase.
Eligibility Criteria
• Industry Focus: Companies must have a strong focus on water technology or sustainability.
• Funding Stage: Applicants must have raised less than $400,000.
• Company Type: The program is open to for-profit companies.
• Program History: Companies that have previously participated in Techstars Founder Catalyst Programs or Techstars Accelerators are not eligible.
• Location: While open to international companies, it is preferred that applicants have ties or are willing to have strong involvement in the Alabama ecosystem.
Spring 2026 Cohort Timeline
• Applications Open: December 11, 2025
• Applications Close: March 8, 2026
• Program Starts: April 6, 2026
• Pitch Day Showcase: June 5, 2026
Fall 2026 Cohort Timeline
• Applications Open: June 1, 2026
• Applications Close: August 9, 2026
• Program Starts: September 8, 2026
• Pitch Day Showcase: November 12, 2026
Cost and Equity
• Cost: There is no cost to participate in the program.
• Equity: The Founder Catalyst program is distinct from the Techstars Accelerator and does not involve any direct investment or equity exchange.
Program Leadership and Partners
• Program Team: The program is led by DeCarri Wells (Program Manager) and Hunter Stepanovich (Operations Coordinator).
• Key Partners: The initiative is powered by the Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority (TCEDA), The University of Alabama, and is funded by the Innovate Alabama Tax credit program.
This program offers a structured pathway for innovators to refine their solutions and prepare for the next stage of their entrepreneurial journey. Interested founders can find application details and contact information for program inquiries through the official Techstars application portal.