Two Accelerator Programs for Blockchain Startups by IBM and Columbia University

IBM and Columbia University launched two new accelerator programs for Blockchain technology entrepreneurs.

The program is targetted towards building and scaling the next generation of blockchain innovation and provide all necessary expertise and resources to entrepreneurs and blockchain network founders need to establish blockchain networks.

According to the announcement, the IBM and Columbia Blockchain Accelerator programs,

• The goal is is to help network founders develop their ideas into sustainable and scalable companies offering blockchain solutions
• Designed for later-stage growth companies globally and focused on building out an enterprise business network and client base for their blockchain application
• Targetted towards for pre-seed, idea-stage companies with a Columbia or other recognized New York City-based University affiliation

It will take place over approximately eight weeks with a mixture of in-person modules in New York and San Francisco, in combination with the virtual programming environment. This is to ensure that founders can participate while devoting time and energy to scaling their businesses.

Executive Opinion

Managing Director, IBM Blockchain Accelerator, David Post, said, “The possibilities presented by blockchain technology are seemingly endless, and we are seeing strong dedication by technical talent to build game-changing applications. What is also needed to truly bring about this sea change is the right technology and expertise which is why IBM is working with Columbia to help give these early- and mid-stage founders a way to build enterprise-grade networks that can move blockchain innovation forward.”

Executive Director, Columbia Blockchain Launch Accelerator, Satish Rao, said, “Columbia University has successfully launched several technology accelerators in New York City, but this our first in partnership with a corporation that is a clear industry leader in the field. Early- and late-stage teams will undoubtedly benefit from IBM’s technology resources, expertise and established network coupled with Columbia’s ground-breaking research and talent in blockchain and data transparency, all while benefiting from rapidly growing NYC blockchain communities.”

Funding and Participation

This is the sixth accelerator program hosted by Columbia that focuses on pre-seed founders and participants will receive tools and training on how to build a blockchain startup and gain access to USD $400K per company.

According to the announcement, nominations for the IBM Blockchain Accelerator are now open and applications for Launch will open in January 2019. IBM and Columbia do not take equity nor charge a fee for participating in either of these programs.