The eLab Summer Accelerator is an intensive program providing the tools and resources students need to develop their own startup. For nine weeks in the summer, teams work on their ventures, develop their networks, and follow a specialized entrepreneurship curriculum. Students will:

• Attend a three-day kickoff session
• Meet with a faculty member to discuss project milestones, deliverables and to create a formal action plan
• Attend lectures and workshops
• Receive mentorship and advising from Keller Center faculty, staff, entrepreneurs and technology experts
• Attend weekly progress update meetings
• Present to investors, inventors, experts, and others from the entrepreneurial community at our Demo Day event

Benefits

• Participants will learn how to develop their startup ideas into viable, scalable ventures
• Assignment of experienced mentors in their field, plus one faculty advisor per team
• Targeted workshops and lectures open only to eLab participants
• Networking opportunities with entrepreneurs, legal and accounting services, and investors
• $5000 stipend for each team member
• Business expense account for each team
• On campus housing and meal plan covered by the Keller Center
• Co-working space in the Princeton Entrepreneurial Hub

Eligibility

• Currently enrolled Princeton University undergraduate (first year, sophomore, junior) and graduate students at the time of application (applies to returnee teams as well as new teams)
• Graduate students must provide written approval from their faculty advisor prior to committing to the program
• All majors are welcomed and encouraged
• Must be available on campus for the entire duration of the program
• Both for-profit and not-for-profit ventures are encouraged 
• Startup team size: minimum of three and maximum of five Princeton student team members
• I-9 not required

Key Dates

• November 1, 2024: Application opens
• December 15, 2024 at 11:59 pm EST: Application deadline
• Late December 2024: Selected teams contacted for interviews
• January 6 - 8, 2025: Team interviews
• January 10, 2025: Offers extended
• One week from date of offer: Commitment deadline
• January 23 - February 16, 2025 at 11:59 pm EST: Tentative second round application (second round is not guaranteed)
• June 1, 2025: Move in
• June 2, 2025: Kickoff barbecue
• July 31, 2025: Demo Day
• August 2, 2025: Move out

How to Apply

The eLab Accelerator cohort is no larger than eight teams; one of those spots is prioritized for a returnee venture.  As expectations for returnee teams are different than for new teams, a different application is required.  Please choose the appropriate application, New Venture or Return Venture.

The 2025 application is now closed. Be notified when the 2026 application opens.

eLab Program Associate

A critical component of the eLab Accelerator program are the two undergraduate associates who, in partnership with eLab program staff, keep the program and the cohort running smoothly throughout the summer. You will work with all aspects of the eLab Summer Accelerator Program, including the day-to-day organization, operations, and social programming.  Find more information about this role and the application process below.

The 2025 application is now closed. Be notified when the 2026 application opens.

Questions?

Email Stephanie Landers, email Manda Ryan, or book office hours with Ben Lehnert.