Startup Colorado and Belonging Colorado are pleased to announce the cohort of our new business accelerator program for belonging. We received more than 100 applications from founders across the country, representing a wide range of industries and business models. Many brought thoughtful ideas for building belonging in their communities and beyond.
Our review team spent a month evaluating applications through a three-phase process designed to give each one careful consideration. We worked with experts in entrepreneurship and leaders with deep experience in the belonging space to guide the selection process.
“The founders not only brought thoughtful business ideas, but clear, strong visions for how their companies could strengthen connection, bridge differences, and create meaningful belonging in their communities,” said Brittany Romano, Executive Director at Startup Colorado. “It’s clear that there is real demand for this kind of support and real potential for entrepreneurship to become a powerful tool for social impact.”
“It’s clear that there is real demand for this kind of support and real potential for entrepreneurship to become a powerful tool for social impact.”
Our selected cohort will participate in a structured business development program, helping them validate, refine, and grow their companies through mentorship, technical training, and investment readiness support. They will benefit from Startup Colorado’s extensive network of business experts, investors, and advisors, as well as Belonging Colorado’s network of nationally recognized experts in belonging.
The program begins in mid-April with a four-week Idea Factory pre-accelerator, where founders will refine their ideas and build a clear business plan. They will receive support with their business model development as well as educational sessions focused on fostering belonging.
Founders who are ready will then move into the six-week Growth Challenge accelerator, where they will receive technical training from topic experts, prepare for due diligence and the possibility of raising funds, and participate in a Demo Day taking place in Denver this September. Qualified founders will also receive support with investor access and pitch competition applications.
“We were impressed by both the volume and quality of applications, with founders representing a range of industries and approaches,” said Erika Montes, the Belonging Colorado Program Lead. “Choosing this cohort was not easy, a testament to the growing momentum of entrepreneurs building businesses focused on belonging.”
MEET THE COHORT
Connor Moynihan — Karmy in Longmont, Colorado
What if helping others was as rewarding as scrolling your phone? Karmy is a platform where people earn points for doing good—helping neighbors, donating items, and supporting their community. Points are redeemable as real rewards from local businesses. Unlike traditional loyalty apps that reward spending, Karmy rewards generosity. We’re turning everyday kindness into a habit—and building stronger communities because of it.
