Techstars Chicago Spring 2027

Techstars Chicago, in partnership with Long Chicago, is an early stage accelerator and venture fund that is long on the Midwest and intensely founder-focused. Selected companies get a large and committed investor and mentor base, dedicated office space in downtown Chicago for up to a year, and a program centered on building and fundraising. Techstars Chicago is not industry or vertical focused; all ambitious founders are welcome to apply.

Key Benefits

• $220,000 investment: $200,000 through an uncapped MFN SAFE and $20,000 through a Post-Money Convertible Common Equity Agreement (CEA) for 5% common stock
• A large and committed investor and mentor base
• Dedicated office space in downtown Chicago for up to a year
• A program centered on building and fundraising
• Access to the Techstars global network

Eligibility

• All ambitious founders; not industry or vertical focused

Program Structure

• Applications open Aug 24, 2026; final deadline Nov 18, 2026 (11:59 pm PT)
• Accelerator starts Mar 8, 2027; Demo Day Jun 3, 2027
• In downtown Chicago, in partnership with Long Chicago
• One Techstars application at apply.techstars.com (Techstars account needed); choose this program as your primary or alternate session