Daily News

VVM Is Accepting Applications for 2016 Accelerator

SPRINGFIELD — Valley Venture Mentors (VVM) is now accepting applications for the 2016 VVM Accelerator. The Accelerator is designed to help participating startups and early stage companies speed up the growth and success of their businesses.

The deadline to apply is Nov. 15.

Participants engage in a four-month commitment, featuring three-day weekend boot camps in Springfield. These sessions include intense training and “lovingly critical support.” Startups must have at least one member at all four sessions and commit one member to working at least 20+hours per week on the business. Participating startups must have earned less than $250,000 during the past 12 months and be passionately committed to growing their business.

“The Accelerator is an intense, immersive experience designed to empower startups to strategically grow their business fueled by the powerful VVM network of mentors, industry experts and fellow entrepreneurs,” said VVM General Manager Liz Roberts. “In addition to training and network access, startups are awarded up to $50,000 in equity-free, no-strings-attached funding for their ventures. The VVM Accelerator structure is designed to go beyond the pitch, giving startups the opportunity to create real relationships with a diverse set of deep pocketed investors.”

There are only 30 spots available. Qualified startups can apply online at http://www.vvmaccelerator.com.