AI startup accelerator
We’ll help you kick off your first AI startup.
3-month intensive AI-focused acceleration program
Exclusive to our learners and alumni
No fees, only investment
Guidance for Y Combinator applications
“A third of our learners are trying to start their startup now or will do it after their studies. 54% are planning to create a startup someday. I know firsthand how hard the founder’s journey is. This is why we developed this accelerator program to help our learners to succeed.”
Your blockers, our solutions
Don’t have startup capital?
Our partner Firstpick will invest in the most promising startups up to 100k after acceleration.
Lack of entrepreneurship skills?
We’ll provide 1:1 mentorship with ex-entrepreneurs to help you build the foundational business skills.
Lack of technical knowledge?
Join our AI Engineering program to develop the technical skills required for building your first AI product.
Don’t have a co-founder?
We’ll organize matchmaking sessions and hackathons to help you find the right partner.
What you’ll learn
How it works
Develop an AI startup idea
None of the founders studied at Turing College?
Join our AI Engineering program — great for aspiring AI startup founders.
Apply for the accelerator
Check out admission criteria before applying.
Complete the 3-month program
Pitch on Demo Day
Selected startups receive up to €100,000 in investment from Firstpick.
Get ready for Y Combinator
Our goal is to help you secure funding from Y Combinator. In fact, we’ll give you tailored recommendations to boost your chances.
Thanks to Turing College founder Lukas's recommendation, we were the 2nd Lithuanian co-founded company that got into Y Combinator.
Admissions
Application
Submit your application form, describing your personal and academic background.
Interview
Attend an interview call with our admissions manager.
Admission criteria:
Turing College learner/alumni as a co-founder
This program is exclusively for teams where at least one co-founder is our learner or alumni. None of the founders studied at TC? Join the waiting list and we’ll notify you about upcoming hackathons.
Have an AI/data science startup idea
The first question is, “What is your company going to make?” This isn’t the question we care most about, but we do need a starting point. We understand that value isn’t in the idea itself but in execution.
Also, this accelerator is primarily focused on ideas that utilize AI or data science to be developed and funded. We won't accept conventional software applications - so be aware of that.
Show commitment
Founders’ journey won’t be butterflies and rainbows. It will be hard. That’s why we’ll look for proof of passion and dedication in your track record.
Demonstrate preparation
We’ll be checking if you’ve really thought deeply about the problem you’re trying to solve. If we can see obstacles to your idea that you don’t seem to have considered, that’s a bad sign. Have this in mind when filling the application.
Our process is inspired by Y Combinator's approach, only more concise. Their recommendations apply here as well.
We have limited seats. Apply now!
Starting dates
June 2025
Applications open: February 2025
Endorsed by experts
We couldn’t be happier to partner with Turing College. Combining their tech expertise with our accelerator and VC experience is a powerful formula to turn bold ideas into reality.
FAQ
Do I need to be a Turing College learner or alumni to join the AI startup accelerator?
Yes, at least one co-founder of your team must be a current Turing College learner or an alumnus. This program is designed to support and invest in our community's talent.
Can individuals apply, or do I need a team?
You can apply as an individual, but building a strong team is key to startup success. If you don’t have co-founders yet, we’ll help you connect with potential partners through matchmaking sessions and hackathons.
Is there a fee to participate in the program?
No, we don’t charge any fees for this program. In fact, our partner Firstpick will invest directly into the most promising startups.
Can I apply if I’m based outside of Lithuania?
Yes, the program is open to applicants from anywhere. As the accelerator operates virtually, you can benefit from world-class mentorship, resources, and support no matter where you’re located.