FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Who can I contact for further questions regarding application submissions and/or general questions?

  For any additional questions, please email catalyst@starburst.aero and stay tuned for updates on upcoming events that will shed more light on the program. Please be sure to include a link to your company's website, a brief description of the technology you are working on, and anything else you think we may need to know so that we can better assist you.

• Who is the program open to?

  IAI Catalyst focuses on pre-seed and seed startups and mature research projects in the United States who can address the posted technology focus areas.

• Is the program virtual or in person?

  During the 20 week-long program, only the 1st, 10th, and 20th weeks will be in-person. Participants can work remotely for the remaining weeks but have full access to IAI’s office space in Herndon, Virginia.

• What is the duration of the program?

  5 months.

• Does the program cost anything?

  The program does not charge a fee for its support but asks for a small percentage of equity up to 7% to participate in the program. As stated on the website’s home page, the “value” of the IAI accelerator program is $200K - $100K in cash and $100K in-kind (Starburst acceleration services).

• Does IAI provide funding support?

  Yes, the selected companies will have the option to receive an investment structured as a SAFE in exchange for equity in the startup. IAI will also prepare the founders to raise additional funds and provide ample opportunities to market their technologies to key players in the ecosystem.

• What kind of mentors are we looking for?

  IAI Catalyst is looking for mentors in a variety of tech related fields which include but are not limited to AI and autonomy, quantum sciences, space tech, sustainability and energy tech.

• What does the time commitment look like during the 5-month program?

  Startups should be able to commit to 5-7 hours of focused time each day during the in-person activities part of the program (sprint weeks, design review week and demo day). And to 5-10 hours per week during the remote part of the program.

• Can foreign (non-US) projects / startups apply?

  IAI Catalyst is only for US startups. For non-US projects or startups, we offer other programs. Get in touch to learn more about them.