Applications for Cohort 4 of Wake Forest Founders Accelerator Are Now Open!

We are looking for 10 scaling businesses that are or going to be rooted in Wake Forest to participate in this industry-agnostic program for Cohort #4 (Fall 2025: September, October, November 2025). The Accelerator program will offer access to thought leaders in the region, core entrepreneurial curriculum + training, legal support, access to capital networks, and pitch scrubs, among other offerings. Dr. Flood will be our primary guide, as Accelerator Manager, and have several Founders-In-Residence for additional mentoring throughout the year. There will be a network of Town stakeholders and entrepreneurial experts involved as well.

Participation in the Accelerator Program requires

1. A Wake Forest address

2. Filling out a simple application

3. Availability for all scheduled sessions (See below)

Cohort #4 applications will launch Friday, August 1, 2025 at 9:00 AM and close on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at 5:00 PM. We will notify applicants of their acceptance into the Program on a rolling basis and by no later than Friday, August 29, 2025 by 5:00 PM.

The structure of the Accelerator will include 3 weekend intensives with the formal programming occurring on Saturdays (full day) and Sundays (half day), along with weekly group virtual sessions, ongoing individual coaching, subject-specific work sessions, mentorship, pitch scrubs, and direct support throughout the Spring. 

Here’s the schedule:

• Cohort #4 Virtual Kick-Off Meeting:
  September 3, 2025 at 6:30 PM

• 3 Weekend Intensives (9:00 AM - 4:00 PM):
  September 13-14, 2025
  October 11-12, 2025
  November 15-16, 2025 (Pitch Competition Practices/Scrubs)

• WFF Pitch Competition & Entrepreneurial Showcase
  December 10, 2025 @ The Loading Dock - Wake Forest (***open to all businesses in Wake Forest, not just accelerator participants***)