Startup CO
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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.

High Country Accelerator

Build your company here and now

Routt and Summit Counties are collaborating with Startup Colorado to bring the High Country Accelerator to entrepreneurs in our counties! The High Country Accelerator is powered by Startup Colorado's Idea Factory and Growth Challenge programming and mentorship network as well as core fundamentals of business programming from the NSF's Innovation Core. These incredible programs are completely free and open to any person interested in starting a company, or recently launched a company, in Routt or Summit Counties. 

Program Details:

  • Duration: September - November 2024
  • Cohort Size: 5 to 10 companies
  • Stage: Idea to growth
  • Company Type: Product and service ideas and businesses that could have a national or international reach
  • Program Location: We will be operating our programming out of Steamboat Social Club, and if you are accepted, you will receive an open seat for the duration of the program.
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Overview of the HCA along with a Q&A

Webinar

High Country Accelerator

Yampa Valley

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
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Let's Build Your Company Together

Startup Are Hard

Don't Build It Alone

Starting a company can be incredibly challenging, especially for new founders. Without the support and guidance of experienced mentors, it's easy to make mistakes along the way. If you're ready to move forward with building your company, we are here to help you every step of the way.

I don't live in Routt or Summit. Can I still apply?

No, this program is only for companies or founders located in Routt or Summit County.

What sort of companies can apply?

Any company from ideation to early growth can apply. This can be companies that are as new as a musing of an idea, all the way up to selling product with early customers. 

How long are the programs?

The idea, finance, and growth programs are all between 3 and 4 weeks in length, however they start at different times throughout the fall.

Who are the mentors?
Our mentors have built and sold some of the most meaningful companies today, have varied backgrounds across tech, and collectively have raised billions of dollars for their companies. While some live in Steamboat Springs, many live in tech ecosystems of Denver / Boulder, New York, and the San Francisco Bay Area. You will have the opportunity to meet with mentors applicable to your business and be matched with those who are best able to help you achieve your goals.
Is there a cost to the program?

No! This is a community program designed to help local founders. As a non-profit, our mission is to increase the economic vitality of our home.