IndieBio Accelerator is a pioneering pre-seed program dedicated to transforming human and planetary health through cutting-edge life sciences and deep tech. Backed by SOSV, a global venture capital firm with over $1.5 billion under management, IndieBio has been at the forefront of biotech innovation since 2014. Whether you’re a first-time founder with a bold idea or a post-doc looking to commercialize groundbreaking research, IndieBio provides the funding, facilities, and hands-on guidance to take your venture from concept to venture-scale reality.
IndieBio Accelerator Overview
IndieBio stands apart from traditional accelerators by offering a hybrid model of in-person and remote support. Teams can join at San Francisco or New York locations—or even remain virtual if logistics demand. Founders participate in an intensive 4–5 month program designed to refine their scientific approach, de-risk technical roadmaps, and establish a solid path to follow-on funding. IndieBio’s mission focuses on deep scientific insights across biotech, climate tech, therapeutics, synthetic biology, and more.
Key Features
- Hands-On Venture Capital: Dedicated IndieBio team members roll up their sleeves to help with everything from lab setup to pitch refinement.
- Customizable Support: Each startup’s milestones and needs are unique—IndieBio tailors resources accordingly.
- Global Network: Founders can tap into a broad ecosystem of mentors, investors, and corporate partners.
- Full-Time Commitment: Founders are expected to devote themselves fully to their startup for the duration of the program.
3. IndieBio Accelerator Eligibility Requirements
IndieBio welcomes applicants from around the world, with a preference for teams of at least two co-founders. While they’ve backed companies at concept stage, a well-thought-out idea with some initial scientific validation is strongly recommended. Key elements they look for:
- Deep Scientific or Technical Insight: The solution should address a major problem in climate, health, biotech, or related fields.
- Team Capability: Balanced co-founders with complementary skills (scientific, technical, business). Single founders are encouraged to apply but may need to find a co-founder before the program begins.
- Scalability & Impact: IndieBio aims for startups addressing problems that could eventually impact 1 billion+ lives.
Note: If other investors have told you “you’re too early,” IndieBio sees that as their sweet spot.
4. IndieBio Application Process
Rolling Admissions: IndieBio reviews applications year-round. Here’s how it works:
- Apply Online
- Fill out the application portal on IndieBio’s website. Share your science, market insight, and team info.
- Screening Calls
- If there’s a potential fit, IndieBio’s team schedules 1–2 introductory calls. You’ll present a 10–15 minute pitch covering technology, team, and market.
- Due Diligence & Interviews
- IndieBio may request additional interviews or references to evaluate technical feasibility and addressable market.
- Offer & Onboarding
- If your startup is selected, you’ll receive an offer to join the next cohort. Program start times vary between SF and NY.
Pro Tip: You can apply even before you’re “fully ready.” IndieBio can fund and work with you months in advance of the official cohort if you haven’t graduated or gone full-time yet.
5. IndieBio Accelerator Investment Terms & Program Costs
IndieBio’s initial investment involves two post-money SAFEs executed simultaneously:
- Cash SAFE: Typically $200,000 injected into the company upfront.
- IndieBio SAFE: A separate agreement representing the in-kind resources such as lab space, equipment, and on-site expertise.
Beyond this base investment, they may offer an additional $250,000 via the Genesis Consortium SAFE—dependent on your startup achieving specific milestones. IndieBio’s goal is to keep the initial check smaller to minimize early-stage dilution while still de-risking critical “valley of death” challenges.
Equity Target
IndieBio aims for about 10% ownership by the time you raise your Series Seed. After the program, SOSV can continue investing at later stages (Seed, Series A, B, and beyond) to maintain or grow its stake, ensuring you’re supported throughout your scaling journey.
6. Why IndieBio Accelerator?
- Hands-On Support: The IndieBio team becomes an extension of your founding team, helping you with technical debugging, executive coaching, recruiting, business development, and more.
- Cutting-Edge Facilities: IndieBio was the first to install a multimillion-dollar biotech lab in-house, offering immediate access to advanced equipment, chemicals, and testing tools.
- Global Investor Network: IndieBio’s Demo Days and curated investor events draw hundreds of VCs, corporate venture arms, and angel investors looking for the next frontier of biotech and climate solutions.
- Expert Guidance from SOSV: With $1.5B+ in assets, SOSV is a top-ranked deep tech investor. Their multi-stage approach means follow-on checks and broad community support.
- Community & Mentorship: IndieBio fosters a tight-knit cohort experience. Alumni founders stay closely connected, paying it forward by sharing lessons and industry contacts.
7. Tips for a Winning IndieBio Application
- Show a Strong Technical Edge IndieBio invests in true breakthroughs. Demonstrate why your approach is novel and how it could disrupt existing industries.
- Prove the Market Need You might have a revolutionary idea, but who will buy it? Show you understand the business model and have some idea of your path to commercialization.
- Assemble a Balanced Team If you’re still solo, consider bringing in a co-founder with complementary skills. Emphasize team synergy and commitment.
- Highlight Potential for Big Impact IndieBio loves radical solutions that could ultimately affect millions (or billions) of people, whether in synthetic biology, sustainable food systems, or advanced therapeutics.
- Be Coachable Demonstrate openness to feedback. IndieBio’s intense hands-on model demands founders willing to iterate rapidly.
8. FAQs
Q1. Can I apply if I only have an idea or half-built prototype?
Yes. IndieBio welcomes “wild ideas” with minimal scientific proof—as long as you can articulate the concept’s feasibility and have at least two co-founders.
Q2. Does IndieBio accept international teams?
Absolutely. Many participants are from outside the U.S. IndieBio can assist with visa and immigration once you’re accepted.
Q3. How long is the accelerator program?
Typically 4–5 months, though IndieBio can fund you earlier if you’re still in school or not fully committed yet.
Q4. Do I need to be on-site in SF or NY the entire time?
It’s not mandatory, but highly recommended to maximize lab access and networking opportunities. The program is still full-time whether you’re remote or in-person.
Q5. How much funding can I expect?
IndieBio’s initial investment can total $525,000 ($200K + $250K from Genesis + in-kind). They aim for 10% ownership by Series Seed, and can continue investing in follow-on rounds.
9. Final Thoughts on Getting Into IndieBio Accelerator
If you’re a biotech or deep tech founder aiming to revolutionize human or planetary health, IndieBio Accelerator is a prime partner for your early-stage journey. Their approach merges hands-on engineering, lab support, and unparalleled VC access , giving you the tools to transform groundbreaking science into a scalable business. By showcasing clear market potential, a strong team, and genuine innovation, you’ll stand out in the rolling admissions process. With IndieBio’s long-term commitment—both financially and operationally—you’ll have a dedicated ally as you navigate the complex world of biotech entrepreneurship.
