The U.S. Early Stage program is a mentor-based program that provides intensive resources and guidance to founders to support startup business acceleration. Operating on an annual cycle, this is a 4-month industry agnostic program for startups that range from beginning customer discover to validating technology or services.

Program Benefits:

• Unrivaled access to 40+ global corporate partners including BAE Systems, Carta, First Republic Bank, Fundify, IBM, and more
• World-class mentoring from 400+ experts and tailored programming provided with no equity taken in return
• The opportunity to compete for non-dilutive cash prizes and other in-kind awards
• United States-specific advice on regulations and tax, easy access to the international markets, and strong trade links
• A proven model that has helped more than 65% of finalists raise funds during or immediately after the program
• Participation in location-based market access program
• Residency opportunities by location

Operating within the MassChallenge Early Stage program, Industry Tracks leverage MassChallenge’s infrastructure to surface and connect select early-stage startups to specialized resources and curriculum. Startups interested in participating will be invited to apply to specific tracks upon their acceptance into the EarlyStage program. Startups do not need to be in any of these industries to apply to MassChallenge. Industry Tracks are simply an option.

Early Stage tracks in 2023 will be:  

• Safety & Security: Startups with a direct or potential relevance to national security and public safety challenges, also known as “dual-use” application in the commercial and governmental/defense sectors. 
• HealthTech: Startups that meaningfully give clinicians and healthcare organizations new treatments, new technologies or new processes they need to focus more on the needs of their patients and to help people improve their lives. 
• Climate Solutions: Startups with technologies that impact GHG emissions and similar climate challenges. 
• Social Impact: Startups that are creating a positive social or societal outcome. 

• Others (see text field entitled "Additional Eligibility Criteria" for clarification)