Desai Accelerator
Desai is a professional business accelerator open to any early-stage, tech-enabled startup. Our programming unites entrepreneurs who want to tap into Michigan’s vast network and r…
Desai Accelerator at a glance
| Address | Ann Arbor, MI, United States |
|---|---|
| Programmes | 1 standing programme |
| Official website | desaiaccelerator.umich.edu |
Programmes they run
Standing programmes at Desai Accelerator, separate from the funding calls above.
Startup Accelerator Program
AcceleratorThe program offers an investment, U-M student interns, mentorship, and access to Michigan's research facilities and labs to scale ventures from concept to market leader.
What you get, who can apply and how to applyHide details
The program is for early-stage tech-enabled startups with a validated concept, scalable business model, and full-time team commitment. One founder must be an upcoming graduate or alumnus of the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. It includes a week-long in-person immersion in Ann Arbor, MI, followed by a hybrid residency. Applicants should have completed rigorous customer discovery, a working MVP or beta product, early customer traction, and market validation. Solo founders are discouraged, with teams of at least two people with a cross-disciplinary skill set preferred. The 2026 program runs from June 1-September 30, 2026.
Incubation tracks
The routes into Desai Accelerator, and what each one includes.
| Track | Type | Space | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Startup Accelerator ProgramHybrid program with an in-person kickoff week in Ann Arbor, MI, and a hybrid residency until the Michigan Innovation Reunion event. | Acceleration | — | investment, student interns, mentorship, market validation, strategic planning, access to research facilities and labs, student project teams |
Labs & facilities
Equipment and space on campus.
Research Facilities and Labs
Access via University of Michigan
Support services
Help offered alongside funding and space.
About Desai Accelerator
Desai Accelerator is a startup accelerator program associated with the University of Michigan, supporting early-stage, tech-enabled startups with validated concepts and scalable business models. It provides investment, dedicated U-M student interns for project execution, and sustained mentorship from serial entrepreneurs. Startups gain access to Michigan's extensive alumni network for partnerships and market access, as well as the university's research facilities and labs. The program combines academic rigor with startup agility, emphasizing market validation and strategic planning. Eligibility requires at least one founder to be a University of Michigan-Ann Arbor alumnus, with a preference for teams over solo founders. The program has a hybrid structure, including an initial in-person immersion week.
Who they work with
Tags
Frequently asked questions about Desai Accelerator
What does Desai Accelerator do?
Desai Accelerator is a startup accelerator program associated with the University of Michigan, supporting early-stage, tech-enabled startups with validated concepts and scalable business models.
Where is Desai Accelerator located?
Desai Accelerator is located at Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
What programs does Desai Accelerator run?
Desai Accelerator runs Startup Accelerator Program.
What facilities does Desai Accelerator offer?
Incubatees also get access to Research Facilities and Labs through its host institution.
Recommended grants & schemes
Other open programmes matching Desai Accelerator's focus areas.
