Early-Stage Startups: Apply Today for efactory’s Accelerator

Are you ready for your startup to take flight? Springfield, Missouri’s efactory is searching for entrepreneurs to join their next accelerator cohort. In exchange for 8 percent in equity, startups will receive $30,000 in funding. Applications close February 28, 2019.

But first, a little bit about accelerator program
The efactory’s twelve-week program is jam-packed with resources designed to get businesses from early-stage to investment-ready in a rapid time frame.

The accelerator is designed for early-stage businesses or those with a minimally viable product. Founders and startups will have access to industry experts and mentors, engage in customer discovery and typically reduce the ramp-up time that most businesses experience in their first years.

This program is open to founders and startups from anywhere in the country. Startups not originally from Missouri must continue to work and operate from the state of Missouri for at least one year after the conclusion of the program. The accelerator is looking for businesses that have the potential to grow and scale quickly.

How to put your best pitch forward
We chatted with Paige Oxendine of the efactory to find out how entrepreneurs can increase their chances of being chosen for the accelerator.

Here’s what she had to say:

• Know your strengths.
  Applications are a way for you to share with the committee what you do best. Whether you’re a previous business owner or are an expert in a particular industry, you want to highlight your knowledge and experience.

• Be aware of your weaknesses.
  Similarly, your application is a way for you to share what your company stands to gain from participating in the accelerator program, and the ways the program will help you take your company to the next level.

• Be prepared for follow-up.
  The application is just the first step. Be prepared to provide additional information and answer questions from the selection committee as they move through the selection process.

More about efactory
The efactory is a one-stop shop for entrepreneurs, small business owners and individuals thinking about starting or growing a business in southwest Missouri. They have the resources to serve businesses at any stage, from initial business planning all the way through succession, acquisition or sale. Their facilities include a coworking space, incubator, private office space, an accelerator program, business consulting through the Small Business and Technology Development Center, leadership training and professional development through their Management Development Institute. The efactory is a Missouri State University program and part of IDEA Commons, Missouri State’s vision for an urban innovation park.

The cohort starts May 13-August 12, 2019. Apply today.

Photo courtesy of efactory.