Applications being accepted for cybersecurity accelerator program

Published June 7, 2013 by Robert Powell, III

The Herndon-based Center for Innovative Technology has begun taking applications for the inaugural 90-day session of MACH37, a newly formed cybersecurity accelerator.

“The creation of the MACH37 recognizes that cybersecurity is not only one of our Nation’s top security priorities, but also one of the most significant innovation challenges facing a networked society” Pete Jobse, CIT President & CEO, said in a statement. “The creation of new cybersecurity products is the only path forward to ensure continued advances in network-based communication services.” 

Jobse said that the accelerator will take candidates, or cohort companies, through an intensive three-month program that transforms innovative cybersecurity product ideas into validated, investment-grade, early-stage companies positioned to be the next generation of cybersecurity providers.

Acceptance into the MACH37 Cybersecurity Accelerator will be highly competitive. Only 10 to 12 companies will be accepted for each of the two sessions per year.

Companies in the program will gain access to an extensive network of cybersecurity professionals, investors and early technology adopters who are committed to improving cyber defense and security through innovation.

Cohort companies will receive $25,000 of initial equity funding when they are accepted. Upon program completion and a successful Demo Day presentation, where candidates pitch their company ideas to investors, selected accelerator companies may qualify to receive up to $200,000 of additional investment from the MACH37 Fund, as well as support in attracting funds from the accelerator’s nationwide investor network.

Ideal candidate companies for MACH37 are:
•      Developing new cybersecurity products;
•      Conceptually advanced enough to define unique value and intellectual property;
•      Engaging in product and business model validation;
•      Focusing on securing early release test partners; and
•      Open to equity-based financing.
Interested candidates can apply online at www.mach37.org. For more information, please direct inquiries to [email protected].

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