Home Initiatives Accelerators
Explore Tennessee's space-focused accelerator programs designed to advance the space sector. These programs are designed to support space-focused innovations by providing essential resources, mentorship and funding to startups and businesses aiming to expand their capabilities and reach within the industry.
Space-Edge Accelerator at Vanderbilt University
The Space-Edge Accelerator at Vanderbilt University is a pioneering initiative designed to foster biomedical innovation within the rapidly growing space sector. This accelerator, formed through a collaboration with other esteemed institutions such as Arizona State University, the University of Central Florida, and the University of Florida, is set to transform the way biomedical technologies are developed for space applications.
This 12-week hybrid program combines virtual workshops with hands-on lab sessions, enabling participants to directly apply their learning in real-world scenarios. The program focuses on several key areas including tissue culture, drug formulation, and the development of physiological sensors, all of which are intended to advance human health technologies for space missions.
The Space-Edge Accelerator is not just about technological innovation; it's also about creating a community. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with leading experts in space medicine and biotechnology, gain access to a network of industry and academic leaders, and potentially partner with commercial space companies looking to innovate healthcare in microgravity environments.
Key Dates for the 2024 Program:
- Application Opening: Aug 8, 2024
- Workshops:
- Workshop #1: Aug 15 at 5:30pm ET - https://bit.ly/3xZCcq8
- Workshop #2: Aug 29 at 5:30pm ET - https://bit.ly/4bMXLI7
- Application Deadline: Sep 8, 2024
- Program Start: Sep 23, 2024
- Program End: Dec 12, 2024
Participants selected for the Space-Edge Accelerator will benefit from tailored mentorship and may be eligible for funding to prototype their solutions, subject to meeting program milestones. This makes it an exceptional opportunity for researchers, entrepreneurs, and innovators who are driven to push the boundaries of what’s possible in space and health science.
If you're interested in participating in the Space-Edge Accelerator, applications are open to researchers, entrepreneurs, and businesses.