High Country Accelerator

Yampa Valley

We're launching this new and innovative collaboration between Startup Colorado, RCEDP, and SEP to support entrepreneurs and startups across the Yampa Valley.

Learn More & Apply

Do you have a business idea or have recently launched a new business?

Are you ready to take the next steps to ensure the success of your business?

The opportunity to join us and make it happen is right here -- right now.

Join the ride, hop in, and apply now for the High Country Accelerator. Start building your new and successful business in the Yampa Valley!

September - October 2024
Whether you're just starting out with an idea or looking to boost your recent startup business, you're encouraged to apply now.
5 to 10 companies/individuals each focused on building their product or service business based in the Yampa Valley.
Enjoy a 3-month membership at Steamboat Social Club.
And other exciting opportunities!

The High Country Accelerator includes:

Startup Colorado's Idea Factory and Growth Challenge:
- Weekly interactive learning
- Virtual cohort discussions and lunches covering weekly assignments
- One-on-one office hours with your Startup Colorado mentor
- Private discussion forum to share your work and ask questions
RCEDP Yampa Valley Entrepreneurship Center:
- In-person engaging workshops and personalized support
- One-on-one support from our Managing Director Aaron Walls
- Space to focus and get to work with a desk at the Steamboat Social Club
- Room to stretch out and collaborate at the Steamboat Social Club
- Access to RCEDP's mentor network each with unique industry expertise
- Access to RCEDP's funders network looking to support new startups
Kickoff party in Summit County
Closing party with business pitch presentations in Steamboat Springs

I don't live in Steamboat. Can I still apply?

Absolutely! This initiative is designed with the Yampa Valley community at heart. However, we warmly welcome those from afar who wish to be part of our exciting journey. Participation requires a commitment to a 3-month on-site engagement, ensuring you reap the full benefits through direct involvement in our workshops. Moreover, to be eligible, either your current venture or your new startup must be officially registered in Routt County. Should the future growth of your business necessitate a move beyond our borders, while we'd love for you to stay, we fully comprehend and support your decision to expand.

What sort of companies can apply?

We welcome applications from companies at any stage of the ideation process. Whether you're just starting to nurture a spark of an idea or you're already developing a functional prototype and planning your launch, we're interested in hearing from you. For those who have already entered the market and are seeing revenue, we encourage a conversation to explore how you might benefit from this initiative or other customized support we offer.

How long is the program?

The program will run from September to November 2024.

Who are the mentors?

Our mentors are trailblazers who have launched and successfully exited from some of today's most impactful companies. They come from diverse industry backgrounds and have collectively funneled billions into their ventures. A number of them call the Yampa Valley home, while others are spread across vibrant startup hubs throughout Colorado and beyond. This presents a unique chance for you to connect with mentors who align with your business vision, ensuring you're paired with individuals most capable of guiding you towards your objectives.

Is there a cost to the program?

Absolutely not! This initiative is a community-focused effort aimed at supporting entrepreneurs throughout the Yampa Valley. As a nonprofit economic development organization, our core objective is to enhance the economic prosperity of the Yampa Valley.

High Country Accelerator