WISE Edtech Accelerator
2025-26 Applications are closed
The selection process (3 Sections)
1- Requirements
Stage
Startups beyond the MVP stage, with evidence of traction and sales. Typically, ventures are pre-Series A or pre-Seed, having raised less than $500,000
Geography
The Accelerator is agnostic to geography, with past cohorts including ventures from both developed and developing countries.
Impact
Startups must show proven traction and measurable impact within their operating markets. Impact is a key consideration in the selection process.
Business Model
The Accelerator targets for-profit ventures (NGOs and nonprofits are not eligible).
Sub-sectors
Ventures from a variety of educational subsectors, including K12, higher education, and professional development, are eligible.
Team
Preference for ventures with co-founders, as this promotes broader engagement across different areas of support.
2- Applications
All applicants must provide the following:
Submission of the official online application form, in English
Complete Edtech Pitch Deck for WISE Accelerator Entry
A product demo log-in for the WISE team
3- Selection Criteria
Team Credentials
The Accelerator prioritizes ventures with co-founders rather than single founders. Co-founders bring diverse expertise across different areas such as product development, marketing, and sales.
The team must demonstrate strong leadership and an ability to execute their vision, with relevant backgrounds in education, technology, or entrepreneurship
Innovation
The startup should demonstrate an innovative approach to addressing educational challenges. Solutions should be disruptive, leveraging technology to transform teaching and learning in meaningful ways.
Unique product offerings, groundbreaking technology, or novel pedagogical approaches will be considered in this category.
Scalability
The venture must show potential for scaling regionally or globally. The solution should have the capacity to expand beyond initial markets and have a broader impact in different geographic contexts.
Evidence of a growth strategy, market demand, and adaptability to different education systems is crucial.
Financial Sustainability
The Accelerator seeks ventures with clear plans for long-term financial sustainability. This includes a viable business model, potential for revenue generation, and evidence of market traction (e.g., sales, fundraising).
Startups must demonstrate financial planning, projections, and a path towards profitability.
Impact
Education impact is a core focus. The venture should have demonstrated measurable impact in its target markets, with clear outcomes related to learning outcomes, educational access, or empowerment.
Impact should align with the Accelerator’s mission of improving educational outcomes, particularly for underserved communities.