Growth Lab

StartOut Growth Lab is a startup accelerator that offers top quality mentoring, education, and networking opportunities for companies that happen to be founded or co-founded by LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs.

93

graduated companies

$892M

in funding raised

4,216+

new jobs

Our Impact

Since our founding, the 93 graduated companies have raised $892M in funding and created over 4,216+ new jobs. Those numbers are a testament to the quality of entrepreneurs we accept and the extent of the resources we offer to them.

We are making a real impact promoting diversity within startup communities across the nation. StartOut Growth Lab (“SGL”) hosts a new virtual cohort of early-stage companies every six months. Up to ten companies are selected for each cohort. Think your company has what it takes?

Each cohort is a 5-month long program. Our next Cohort will start on September 3, 2024. 

Applications are currently closed. 

What We Offer

  • A virtual community of LGBTQ+ founders who support and motivate one another.
  • Mentoring from our entrepreneur-in-residence and direct access to StartOut Experts.
  • Weekly digital lunch & learns with guest experts covering a broad range of topics presented by founders, experienced professionals, and investors.
  • A graduation event at the end of your term to celebrate your successes with the StartOut community.
  • Semi-annual in-person events to connect with present and future cohort members

What We Expect

  • A commitment from your company’s founder(s) to participate in the entire 5-month program while working full time on your startup company.
  • A spirit of collaboration, volunteerism, and joy in giving back to your peers and others who contribute to your success.
  • Long hours and hard work to make the most of your tenure at SGL
  • Mandatory attendance at monthly Lunch & Learn events.
  • Participate in an in-person kick-off event in San Francisco

What Makes an Ideal Candidate

  • Company or a subsidiary is registered in the US
  • Product or service is established in the marketplace
  • Business runway is 9+ months (not a requirement)
  • Generating revenue
  • High-growth companies with a path to scalability

Companies Not Suited for the Growth Lab

  • Consulting services
  • Cannabis-related, sex-tech, or firearm companies
  • Brick-and-mortar businesses
  • Pre-MVP
  • Non-profit organizations
  • A company where the founder is not working full-time in the business

Thank You to Our Growth Lab Sponsors