We are officially live.

Recently, on Fox61, our CEO Rob and CMO Danny had the honor of announcing that Escape Velocity Partners Advanced Accelerator is now accepting applications for its inaugural cohort. For us, this is more than the launch of a program, it’s the launch of a movement rooted in a simple belief: the future of innovation in Connecticut deserves to accelerate.

As entrepreneurs, innovators, executives, and social innovation leaders, we’ve seen firsthand the barriers founders face: lack of access to capital, limited networks, and the challenge of turning bold ideas into scalable businesses. We’ve also seen the extraordinary potential of this state, a region with deep talent, world-class institutions, and the kind of grit that builds enduring companies.

Escape Velocity was born from the intersection of these truths.

What We’re Offering Founders

The EVP Advanced Accelerator is designed for early-stage startups ready to grow with focus, speed, and the right support. Founders admitted to the program receive:

• $25K non-dilutive funding at entry
• Performance-based $250K seed investment opportunities
• Expert mentorship and coaching from seasoned operators and executives
• A powerful network across Connecticut’s innovation economy
• Two years of programming blending in-person and virtual workshops, investor introductions, and pitch opportunities

This isn’t just about money. It’s about creating the right conditions for transformative growth.

Why Connecticut, Why Now

Our program is intentionally tied to Qualified Opportunity Zones (QOZs): Designated areas that unlock tax incentives and foster local economic growth. For founders, this means the chance to scale in an ecosystem where community impact and business success align.

Hartford is our hub, but we operate through a hub-and-spoke model, meaning startups can plant roots in any Connecticut city or town, provided they’re willing to relocate into a QOZ by the start of the program. This ensures flexibility, while still driving growth where it’s needed most.

FAQs: What Founders Are Asking

‍Do I need to move to Hartford?
No. You can build from anywhere in Connecticut, as long as you’re willing to relocate to a QOZ.

What kind of startups are you looking for?
We welcome scalable startups across sectors, healthcare, fintech, climate tech, insurtech, advanced manufacturing, and beyond.

Does the program provide funding?
Yes. $25K non-dilutive at entry, followed by a minimum $250K for those admitted to the full cohort.

How long is the program?
Two years, designed for both intensity and sustainability.

Do I need to be incorporated?
Yes, startups must have been incorporated for at least 12 months by October 2025.

Are non-profits eligible?
No. This accelerator is focused on for-profit startups with scalable models.

What support can I expect?
Access to mentors, investors, technical & growth resources, workspace, and tailored programming, all curated to accelerate your trajectory.

How do I apply?
Applications are open now at escapevelocity.us/accelerator

Our Commitment to Connecticut

We love this state. Many of us built careers here, launched ventures here, and raised families here. We believe Connecticut has the capacity to compete at the highest levels of innovation and Escape Velocity is one piece of that future.

This isn’t just an accelerator. It’s a collective bet on founders who want to build boldly, scale responsibly, and anchor their success in a place with extraordinary potential.

The countdown has started. If you’re a founder with vision and courage, we invite you to apply today.

🎥 Watch the full Fox61 announcement