AlphaLab

Program Type: In-person
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Investment: Up to $100,000
Equity Taken: 2%
Program Duration: 24 weeks (6 months)
Stage: Early Stage
Industry of Focus: This is an industry-agnostic program with focus on Software, Hardware, Life Sciences, Robotics, AI, SaaS, Health, Fintech, Blockchain, Industrial Tech.

Key Highlights

Program Overview

AlphaLab, powered by Innovation Works, is Pittsburgh’s leading accelerator supporting startups since 2008. It offers specialized tracks in software, hardware, health, and robotics, providing funding, mentorship, and deep connections to investors, customers, and talent. The program aims to help startups scale faster within Pittsburgh’s vibrant tech ecosystem.

Diversity, Inclusion, and Exclusion

AlphaLab seeks ambitious, driven, and coachable founders ready to fully commit to their startup’s success, engage deeply with mentorship, and work within Pittsburgh’s tech community.

Investment Details

• Up to $100,000 investment in the form of an uncapped convertible note
• 2% common stock equity from participating companies
• Option to participate in SAFE if at least $100,000 has been raised by an institutional investor on the same terms

Benefits Details and Perks/Credits

• Hands-on mentorship from industry experts
• Dedicated workspace
• Workshops and networking events
• Access to specialized equipment
• Preparation to engage with investors
• Investor connections through Innovation Works Venture Expo

Program Format

• Structured, peer-to-peer support within a defined accelerator timeline
• Six-month program duration
• Approximately six to eight hours per week commitment
• In-person participation required

Location or Relocation Requirements

• Commitment to presence in Pittsburgh
• Maintain employees and facilities in Pennsylvania for a minimum of five years

Cohort Size and Program Frequency

• 20 companies funded per year
• Applications usually open for six to eight weeks

Requirements Related to Users, Revenue, or LOIs:

• Validated problem and customer discovery
• Compelling proof of concept, prototype, or minimum viable product
• Preliminary business plan
• Large potential market size ($1 billion or more)

Post-Program Engagement

• Companies eligible for additional funding from Innovation Works’ Seed Fund
• Access to dedicated space for six months following graduation

Company Types Requirements

• Early-stage startups with a unique vision for growth in sectors like software, robotics, life sciences, and hardware
• U.S. incorporation (LLC, C-Corp, or S-Corp)
• Ownership of IP or exclusive license

Founding Team Preferences

• Motivated team with complementary skills
• Full-time commitment to the accelerator programming

Up to $100k investment in Convertible Equity per company

2% equity taken

In person location

$0 cost
20 companies funded per year

WHO WE ARE

AlphaLab, powered by Innovation Works, exists to accelerate high-growth startups on their journey from vision to business. Our mission is to empower founders with the resources, mentorship, and community they need to overcome obstacles, validate their market fit, and gain traction with investors. With specialized tracks in software, hardware, health, and robotics, AlphaLab helps startups find a path to success in Pittsburgh’s thriving ecosystem.

WHY ALPHALAB

At AlphaLab, founders aren’t just part of a program — they’re the focus of a community built to drive success. Our hands-on mentorship approach pairs each startup with industry veterans who’ve navigated the same challenges, ensuring founders receive guidance tailored to their unique needs.

AlphaLab invests up to $100,000 in the form of a convertible note and receives 2% common stock equity from participating companies, laying a solid foundation with early capital that opens doors to further funding opportunities through our connections in the investor community.

AlphaLab’s alumni network includes over 250 companies that have collectively raised more than $1.3 billion, creating a proven legacy of success across Pittsburgh’s vibrant tech landscape.

WHY PITTSBURGH

A growing tech hub with top talent from Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh, robust manufacturing resources, and a thriving entrepreneurial community.