Entrepreneurs Roundtable Accelerator (ERA) is New York City’s largest accelerator program, offering early-stage tech startups seed capital, a four-month mentorship-driven program, and access to an expansive network of 500+ expert mentors. Since its inception, ERA’s cohorts have collectively raised $2B+ in investor capital, and its alumni now exceed $10B in combined market value. With two cohorts per year, ERA immerses founders in the heart of NYC’s vibrant startup scene.
Entrepreneurs Roundtable Accelerator (ERA) Overview
- Duration & Format: ERA runs two four-month programs annually, typically beginning in January and June.
- Location: Most founders work out of ERA’s co-working space in New York City, with hybrid and remote-friendly programming available.
- Curriculum & Activities:
- Founder Speaker Series: Insights from top NYC entrepreneurs and VCs
- Workshop Series: Tactics on enterprise sales, data science, marketing, IP/patents, and more
- Mentor Meetings: 500+ mentors across disciplines (tech, marketing, sales, etc.)
- KPI Reviews & Pitch Practice: Weekly sessions to refine business strategy, product roadmap, and investor pitches
- Demo Day: Culminates in a high-profile investor showcase
Key Outcome: By the program’s end, you’ll sharpen your product-market fit, build traction, and potentially raise your next round with help from ERA’s network of angels and VCs.
ERA Accelerator Eligibility Requirements
- Stage: Typically seed or pre-seed startups; most teams have at least a working prototype or early customers.
- Founders: Two to four co-founders is ideal, though not mandatory. Non-technical founders are welcome, but having at least one technical co-founder is strongly preferred.
- Tech Focus: Startups must have a significant technology component (software or software-enabled). ERA invests across diverse sectors—B2B, B2C, fintech, e-commerce, climate, etc.—as long as there’s a clear NYC market opportunity.
- Full-Time Commitment: Founders are expected to quit any part-time jobs and focus on building their company during the accelerator.
- Company Formation: ERA invests only in U.S. C Corporations. International startups may need to “flip” their current structure into a U.S. C Corp before joining.
ERA Application Process
- Online Application
- Apply through ERA’s website. Deadlines are typically announced for the winter (January) and summer (June) cohorts.
- Screening & Interviews
- If shortlisted, you may be invited for one or more interviews (virtual or in-person). Provide a clear pitch deck, market validation, and founder background.
- Final Selection
- If accepted, you’ll join the four-month program in NYC. International teams must arrange travel or visas independently.
- Program Kickoff
- You’ll get matched with a lead mentor in the first week, plus an alumni mentor, both of whom guide you throughout the program.
Pro Tip: If you live outside NYC, plan your travel in advance. ERA does not reimburse interview-related expenses or handle visa applications.
ERA Investment Terms & Program Costs
- Seed Investment:
- $150,000 on a post-money SAFE for 6% equity.
- Follow-On Funding:
- ERA may opt to invest again as your startup grows; they typically don’t lead or price rounds but welcome follow-on participation.
- Perks & Credits:
- Over $1M in potential value, including hosting credits (AWS, Google, Azure, IBM), API credits (Stripe, Segment, OpenAI), and preferred pricing for key services (Deel, Carta, Justworks, etc.).
- Office Space:
- Use of ERA’s NYC facility for the duration of the program at no extra cost.
What Is a SAFE?
A Simple Agreement for Future Equity is a common early-stage investment vehicle. It’s not a loan and doesn’t accrue interest. When you raise your next equity round, the SAFE converts into preferred shares representing 6% of your company’s post-money valuation before the new round’s dilution.
Why Entrepreneurs Roundtable Accelerator?
- Deep NYC Network
- 500+ mentors representing top industries—finance, media, enterprise tech, etc.—help with product feedback, sales intros, and strategic partnerships.
- Hands-On Programming
- Weekly pitch practice, KPI reviews, and workshops with domain experts ensure founders make tangible progress.
- Strong Alumni Community
- 350+ alumni companies continue to collaborate post-program. Many startups share leads, best practices, or even partner on joint go-to-market strategies.
- Investor Connections
- Regular contact with NYC’s top seed and Series A investors, culminating in a high-profile Demo Day.
- Long-Term Support
- ERA stays actively involved beyond the four-month window—co-investing in follow-on rounds, providing guidance on major product launches, and tapping alumni networks for partnership opportunities.
Tips for a Winning ERA Application
- Show Market & NYC Relevance
- Emphasize how NYC can be a strategic launchpad (customer access, industry clusters, etc.). If you’re international, explain your plan for leveraging the U.S. market.
- Highlight Team Chemistry
- ERA wants to see a cohesive founding team capable of executing quickly. Two to four founders with balanced technical and business acumen is ideal.
- Demonstrate Early Traction
- Even if you’re pre-revenue, present any user or pilot data. Show robust customer discovery and a clear path to scaling.
- Clarify Your Roadmap
- How will you use ERA’s resources (mentors, capital, perks) to reach milestones? Provide a realistic yet ambitious plan for the next 6–12 months.
- Focus on Commitment
- Founders should be ready to operate full-time, relocate to NYC (or at least be on-site regularly), and push the venture forward relentlessly.
FAQs
Q1: Can I join if I’ve already raised funding?
A1: Yes. Many ERA companies have raised prior rounds. As long as you’re still at a stage where ERA’s support, funding, and network can accelerate your growth, you’re eligible.
Q2: Do I have to be in NYC for the entire four months?
A2: The Summer 2025 program is hybrid, but in-person participation is strongly encouraged. Much of the benefit comes from on-site collaboration, networking, and mentor access.
Q3: What if my product is still in development?
A3: That’s fine. Many accepted startups are pre-launch or in early testing. Show a strong roadmap and demonstrate a commitment to iterative product development.
Q4: Do I have to incorporate as a U.S. C Corp?
A4: Yes. ERA only invests in U.S. C Corporations. If you’re an LLC or foreign entity, you’ll need to “flip” your structure before finalizing the investment.
Q5: How does Demo Day work?
A5: Demo Day marks the end of the four-month program. Each founder presents on stage to a curated audience of angels, super-angels, and VCs—often leading to meaningful investor follow-up.
Final Thoughts on Getting Into Entrepreneurs Roundtable Accelerator (ERA)
Entrepreneurs Roundtable Accelerator (ERA)
is an excellent choice for tech startups seeking hands-on mentorship, a vibrant founder community, and deep connections within NYC’s ecosystem. By showcasing early traction, a committed team, and a clear vision for leveraging the city’s unique advantages, you’ll position yourself for acceptance. Once in ERA, you’ll gain seed funding, expert guidance, and a robust network—tools you can leverage far beyond the four-month accelerator.
