Luminate accelerator
A programme by Luminate
A hybrid, mostly remote accelerator for startups with optics, photonics, imaging or laser-enabled technology, with an investment at acceptance.
At a glance
| Best for | Startups with lab-scale optics, photonics, imaging or laser technology that want investor access and commercial help. |
|---|---|
| Stage | Prototype |
| Duration | 6 months per the apply page; 7 months per another page |
| Format | Hybrid |
| Run with | NextCorps, Empire State Development |
About Luminate accelerator
Luminate is a cohort-based accelerator run from Sibley Square in Rochester, New York. Most of the programme is remote. Cohort members come to Rochester one week a month for meetings and investor pitches.
What you get
- An investment at acceptance, structured as a convertible note, with eligibility for follow-on investment.
- More than 50 workshops over the cohort, covering business, finance, IP and go-to-market topics.
- Introductions to over 30 pitch opportunities with investors.
- Mentoring from the advisory board and one-to-one support.
- Working space in Sibley Square for members who attend in person.
Who can apply
- Startups with optics, photonics, imaging or laser-enabled technology.
- Companies that are incorporated, have proven the technology at least at lab scale, and have at least two full-time team members.
- A C-level team member who can travel to Rochester.
How selection works: applications are reviewed for a cohort of companies each year. The pages give different cohort sizes.
How to apply: use the apply page. Applications for cohort 10 close on January 11, 2027.