Accelerate: ICAP and Startup Acceleration Programs

Accelerate is George Mason University's signature initiative to propel innovation, commercialization, and entrepreneurship across Virginia. It encompasses several complementary programs:

• ICAP (Innovation Commercialization Assistance Program): A no-cost lean startup short course focused on customer discovery for Virginia technology entrepreneurs, delivered through the Virginia SBDC network
• CCI Accelerator (Commonwealth Cyber Initiative): Supports cybersecurity startups with technical mentorship, commercialization support, and funding access, focusing on cybersecurity, secure AI, IoT, and cloud security
• Accelerate Quarterly Breakfast Series: Networking events connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders across the DMV region
• Accelerate Investor Conference: An annual venture investor and startup conference featuring an early-stage business competition with cash prizes
• NIH REACH (Research Evaluation & Commercialization Hub): Supports bio-health researchers through the Virginia Mid-South Hub with entrepreneurial training and funding for early-stage product definition studies