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ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Alexandria's first startup accelerator is now accepting applications, the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership announced Monday, marking the latest milestone in a program months in the making.
The program, named Accelerate ALX, is open to Alexandria-based founders building companies in artificial intelligence and machine learning, cybersecurity, defense, quantum computing, energy, aerospace, robotics and computer services. The accelerator offers mentorship, strategic guidance and ecosystem connections at no cost to participants, with no equity taken.
The program will support a cohort of up to 15 Alexandria startups and will focus heavily on one-on-one support and mentorship tailored to each company's needs, while also offering classroom instruction and networking opportunities.
AEDP selected Arlington-based FedTech to develop and operate the program from a pool of more than 20 applicants. FedTech has run more than 130 custom studios and accelerators with 120 partner labs around the world, and its alumni companies have raised more than $5 billion in investment.
The program is backed by $200,000 in city funding for the first year. AEDP could pursue additional funding beyond 2026 if the program succeeds. The program must be completed by Dec. 31, 2026.
Accelerate ALX is the first initiative under ALX Forward, Alexandria's first comprehensive economic development strategy in nearly two decades, which City Council unanimously adopted in January. The program will also integrate where appropriate with offerings from National iQ, the new innovation district in National Landing.
Founders interested in learning more can attend an in-person info session on Tuesday, June 16, from 6 to 7 p.m. at the AEDP office, 1940 Duke St., 6th Floor. Space is limited and registration is required. Applications close June 30. The program itself is expected to begin this summer.
Register for the June 16 info session or apply for the Accelerate ALX cohort. More information is available at alexandriaecon.org.
