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Rev Ithaca Startup Works Opens Applications for 2025 Protofacturing Hardware Accelerator

Rev Ithaca Startup Works has officially announced the opening of applications for its prestigious Protofacturing Hardware Accelerator program for the year 2025. This comprehensive five-month initiative is designed specifically to support startups that have successfully developed proof-of-concept prototypes and are getting ready to embark on their initial manufacturing processes.

The accelerator aims to provide necessary resources and mentorship for teams that can demonstrate the feasibility of their concepts through practical prototypes and have engaged in substantial customer discovery. Importantly, the program welcomes both students and professionals, highlighting its flexible nature as all content is delivered in a completely virtual environment. As a result, this opens doors for aspiring innovators regardless of their geographical location.

Specialized Tracks for Targeted Support

The Protofacturing Hardware Accelerator offers four unique focus tracks, allowing participants to benefit from specialized training that aligns with their respective industries:

1. Classic Track: This foundational track is open to innovators from any field, equipping them with essential knowledge applicable across multiple industries.
2. ClimateTech Track: Startups focusing on ClimateTech will find themselves in a like-minded cohort, gaining access to mentors with clean energy expertise and guest speakers actively working in the field.
3. AgTech Track: This track provides specialized training tailored for agricultural technology startups, connecting them with industry experts and potential collaborators.
4. MedTech Track: Medical device innovators will receive targeted mentorship and networking opportunities with professionals who have significant expertise in the medical sector.

Hilario Castillo, RN, the founder of Port Align and a participant in the 2024 MedTech Protofacturing Hardware Accelerator, shared, "I always tell everyone that Port Align has been scaled at a record pace because of Rev. The amount of support, knowledge, constant feedback, and learning in the program has been incredible."

Structure and Options

Participants of the Protofacturing Hardware Accelerator can select from two distinct participation options:

• - Advising Only: This tier allows access to all virtual content sessions and supplementary resources, including workshops and a digital curriculum. This option is ideal for startups seeking mentorship without the immediate need for physical prototyping support.
• - Development Support: Designed for companies that require more comprehensive assistance, this group enjoys all the benefits of the content participants and additional engineering and development support. Moreover, this tier provides access to the hardware prototyping lab. Startups in this category may choose between in-person shop access and remote development through Rev's talented engineering team.

Impact and Opportunities

The Protofacturing Hardware Accelerator is not just a program; it plays a vital role in promoting the local entrepreneurial ecosystem and stimulating economic growth within the region. Alumni of previous prototyping and manufacturing initiatives have collectively raised over $25 million in venture capital. Notably, 40% of participants have engaged in further entrepreneurship programs right here in upstate New York, illustrating the ongoing impact and successful track record of the accelerator.

Applications for the 2025 cohort are being reviewed on a rolling basis, so aspiring entrepreneurs are encouraged to visit the Protofacturing Hardware Accelerator homepage for detailed information and to submit their applications. This is an exceptional opportunity for those wanting to turn their innovative ideas into viable products.

About Rev Ithaca Startup Works

Rev Ithaca Startup Works functions as a business incubator within the domain of Cornell Research and Innovation. The organization is committed to nurturing startup growth by providing invaluable mentorship, resources, and programs tailored to the Ithaca region. Through initiatives like the Protofacturing Hardware Accelerator, Rev Ithaca aims to propel the next generation of entrepreneurs to success.