MVP Lab Accelerator and Grant For BIPOC tech founders

Job Description

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Access Mode’s programming is centered around the MVP Lab, a tailored accelerator designed to help BIPOC tech founders take their ideas from prototype to venture-ready products with paid customer traction.

What Is the MVP Lab?

The MVP Lab is Access Mode’s flagship accelerator model. It focuses on supporting early-stage tech ventures led by founders who have historically faced barriers to capital and support. Participants benefit from customized guidance aimed at advancing their minimum viable product (MVP) and positioning the company for investment or scaling with paying users.

What Sets Access Mode Apart

• Equity & Inclusion as Core Principles — All Access Mode staff, mentors, and program presenters undergo diversity, equity, and inclusion training to ensure supportive and culturally aware guidance.
• Personalized Mentorship — Each founder is paired with a dedicated mentor who works closely with the team to match programming with company needs.
• Equity-Focused Support — The program was created by founders of color and is led by a team deeply committed to removing systemic barriers for tech entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities.

Participant Benefits

As part of the MVP Lab program, each accepted company receives:

✔ $20,000 non-dilutive grant (no equity taken)
✔ Mentorship throughout the program tailored to your company’s goals
✔ Customized schedule connecting your team to subject-matter experts and advisors who match your product and market needs
✔ Permanent access to Access Mode’s founder community and network
✔ Connections to pre-vetted early-stage institutional and angel investors
✔ Up to $10,000 in service credits for external providers such as marketing agencies or developers to help finalize MVP and gain customer traction

Who This Programming Is For

The MVP Lab is best suited for:

• Early-stage tech or tech-enabled startups
• Companies led by Black, Latino, Asian American and Pacific Islander, or Indigenous founders
• Ventures working to develop a prototype or early MVP
• Founders seeking high-touch mentorship and connections to capital

Program Focus

Access Mode’s programming is designed to help founders:

• Refine their product for market fit
• Build systems and strategies for early customer acquisition
• Connect with investors and ecosystem partners
• Gain the confidence and expertise to scale a tech venture