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Applicants interested in the IdeaSpace Accelerator program must have:

  • A startup focused on solving an urgent problem or issue through technology 
  • A self-aware, coachable, committed, and collaborative team, comprised of a minimum of one (1) member; for teams applying from other countries, there has to be at least one part-time or full-time Filipino founder 
  • At least one full-time member on the team 
  • A minimum viable product 
  • Access to a stable internet connection and a device for virtual sessions for the duration of the program 

Our application process:

  • Check out the FAQs for any questions about the program. 
  • Apply via YouNoodle. You may edit and update your entry anytime before the deadline. 
  • Applicants meeting the criteria will be asked to submit a video entry for the 2nd round of evaluations. Those passing the 2nd round would proceed to a final round with a panel interview featuring IdeaSpace staff, mentors, and partners. 
  • The selected startups will participate in the six-week pre-acceleration program, after which they will pitch to a select group of judges for a chance to take part in the four-month acceleration program.

Timeline 

The call for applications opens only once a year. We encourage teams fitting the criteria to apply for the program for a chance to join our growing network of high-potential startups. 

For the 2021 acceleration program, here are some of the key dates that you will need to know: 

  • November 27, 2020: Opening for call of applications
  • December 11, 2020: IdeaSpace Demo Day 
  • January 12-February 17, 2021: Community events and writeshops 
  • (Extended Deadline) March 5, 2021, 11:59 p.m. (Manila time): Deadline for applications
Apply Now

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I apply if I just have an idea?

    We do not recommend that idea stage startups apply as our accelerator best serves teams with at least a minimum viable product. An incubation program might better serve you and your company at this time.

  • Do I need a tech or IT background to qualify?

    We are looking for founders and teams with diverse backgrounds beyond IT. The teams that have found success during and outside of the program usually have at least five years of experience in a specific domain or industry. Having a technical lead or advisor is more of an advantage than a requirement.

  • I’m the only person in the company./I’m a solo founder. Do I qualify?

    Yes, you may send an application with a solo member. However, please note you have until the pre-acceleration phase to find at least one co-founder. We highly recommend having  at least part-time co-founders, consultants, or employees, as the IdeaSpace program is rigorous and will test the startup team’s execution quotient in different areas.

  • Is there a maximum number of team members?

    No. The platform we use for submissions requires a maximum of three names and contact details. However, you can definitely have more than three members in a group.

  • Should the entire team be full-time?

    Not necessarily but we recommend at least one full-time founder. We expect part-time co-founders, employees, or consultants to support the full-time founder and participate in activities as they see fit.

  • Can we submit before the deadline?

    Yes. We encourage applicants to accomplish their applications at least a week before the actual deadline to avoid technical difficulties and to encourage quality submissions.

  • We have been through an incubation program before. Should we still apply for your program?

    Our accelerator program focuses on turning startups into scaleups. If you are looking to help your team and your business grow, you are a good fit for the program.

  • Does IdeaSpace take equity?

    Should we choose to invest in your startup at the end of the accelerator program, yes, we will take equity. The actual percentage will be determined during deliberations between IdeaSpace and the leadership team of the startup.

  • My startup is in the same industry as an IdeaSpace alumnus/alumna. Should I still apply?

    Yes. The information shared with the IdeaSpace team and mentors will remain confidential. We encourage collaboration between startups operating in similar spaces; however, the amount and kind of information shared is still up to the founders.

  • We joined last year but we did not make it past a certain round. Can we reapply?

    Yes! If you are reapplying with the same startup and idea, we advise that you highlight the improvements the founders and business have made since the last application. If you are applying with a different idea, you may note this in the application form.

  • Will the program be online?

    Yes, the 2021 acceleration program will be 100% virtual.

  • I’m a Filipino startup founder based abroad and I’d like to set up shop in the Philippines. Is the IdeaSpace program right for me?

    Yes, as long as you have intentions of setting up operations in the Philippines and marketing your product or service to the Filipino market. Teams from other countries may apply must have at least one Filipino team lead. The IdeaSpace accelerator program involves learning sessions, workshops, mentoring, and regular check-ins. If your startup is at a more advanced stage and you’d like to focus on areas such as legal matters, office space, hiring, or if you're looking for a soft landing program, we may not be the best program for you. ​If you require funding and have previously completed an incubator or accelerator program, you may want to consider applying for the Opportunity Fund instead. If you would like to learn more about the Philippine market, get advice and guidance from industry experts and startup founders based in the Philippines, or pursue a market-specific approach, the IdeaSpace program will be a good fit for you.

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