The a16z Speedrun Accelerator is one of the most coveted programs in tech, AI, and entertainment, offering startups up to $1M in investment, deep mentorship, and access to Andreessen Horowitz’s (a16z) elite network. With an acceptance rate below 1%, getting in is no small feat. This guide will help founders understand how the program works and how to stand out in a highly competitive pool.
A16Z Speedrun Accelerator Overview
📅 Duration: 12 weeks (~90 days)
🏫 Format: In-person, full-time
📍 Locations: Alternating between San Francisco and Los Angeles
🧠 Focus Areas: AI, Gaming, Entertainment, XR/VR, Prosumer Tools, Creative Tech
👥 Cohort Size: 30–42 startups per batch
The program includes weekly sessions, one-on-one mentorship, expert talks, peer feedback, and progress milestones (like Progress Day and Demo Day).
A16Z Speedrun Investment Terms
- Funding: Up to $1,000,000 per startup
- Instrument: Typically SAFE or equity round
- Equity: Standard early-stage terms (~7–10%)
- Program Fee: None
- Perks: $5M+ in cloud/software credits
- Follow-on Rights: a16z often participates in later rounds
✨Founders only give equity in exchange for funding—no fees, no strings.
A16Z Speedrun Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the a16z Speedrun Accelerator, founders must meet a few core requirements that ensure readiness and alignment with the program’s fast-paced environment and focus areas.
- Stage: Pre-seed or seed; prototype or early traction required
- Team: Solo founders accepted; technical co-founder not required
- Incorporation: Not required at application but must incorporate if accepted
- Geography: Open globally; visa support available
- Commitment: Full-time, in-person attendance mandatory
- Focus: Must align with Speedrun’s themes (AI, gaming, digital entertainment)
Founders should be 18+, focused, and ready to immerse themselves fully.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re still early, focus on showing momentum—Speedrun values progress over polish.
Application Process
The application process for a16z Speedrun is rigorous and designed to identify bold, high-velocity founders ready to take on the accelerator’s intense pace.
- Online Application – include deck, product demo, metrics.
- Screening – <1% accepted; standout traction and founder insight required.
- Interview – With a16z partners and Speedrun staff. Focus on clarity, domain expertise, and coachability.
- Offer & Onboarding – Standard term sheet via SAFE/equity agreement.
- Program Kickoff – Begins with orientation and workspace setup in host city.
💡 Pro Tip: Get feedback on your deck before applying—clear storytelling and compelling metrics go a long way.
Why Choose a16z Speedrun?
The a16z Speedrun Accelerator offers more than just funding—startups gain strategic support across every dimension of growth. Here’s what makes the program stand out:
💸 Elite Investment: Up to $1M + $5M in perks
🧠 Mentorship: 1:1 support from top-tier VCs and founders (e.g., Marc Andreessen, Ben Horowitz, Dylan Field)
⚙️ Operational Help: Talent sourcing, marketing, BD intros, fundraising prep
🤝 Community: Tight-knit cohort and alumni network (500+ founders)
📈 Credibility: The a16z badge boosts hiring and investor trust
🔗 Post-Program Access: Ongoing support and introductions from a16z
💡 Pro Tip: Leverage the a16z brand and network in your investor and hiring decks—credibility opens doors fast.
📚 Tips for a Winning Speedrun Application
Crafting a compelling application for the a16z Speedrun Accelerator requires more than a polished pitch—it demands clarity, momentum, and alignment with the program’s bold vision. Here’s how to stack the odds in your favor:
1- Show Early Traction🚀: Highlight even small wins—like early user adoption, positive feedback, or initial revenue—as indicators of momentum. Speedrun looks for signals that you can ship, learn, and iterate fast.
2- Highlight Founder-Market Fit 🧠: Explain why you, personally, are the right person to solve this problem. Whether it’s deep domain experience, a personal story, or years in the trenches—make the connection obvious and powerful.
3- Present a Bold Vision 🌍 : Articulate a compelling 5–10 year outcome for your startup. Don’t just think MVP—think global impact. Speedrun backs founders with ambition to reshape entire industries.
4- Explain Clearly 🗣️ : Use simple, jargon-free language to describe your product, problem, and traction. Reviewers should understand what you do—and why it matters—within seconds.
5- Align with Speedrun’s Focus 🎮: Tailor your application to emphasize themes that matter to Speedrun—AI, games, creative tech, entertainment, or interactivity. Make it clear your startup fits their world.
6- Be Coachable 🎓: Signal that you’re adaptable, open to feedback, and excited to grow. Founders who can absorb and act on input thrive in Speedrun’s mentorship-heavy format.
7- Use Your Network 🤝: A warm intro from a Speedrun alum, VC, or trusted advisor goes a long way. It shows you’re plugged in and already building relationships that matter.
8- Prepare for Fast Timelines ⏱️: Speedrun moves fast. Make it clear you’re ready to relocate, start full-time immediately, and engage fully with the program’s intensity and pace.
💡 Pro Tip: Treat your application like a pitch to an investor—clarity, traction, and ambition will take you further than polish alone.
FAQs
❓ What stage should my startup be in to apply?
Speedrun is designed for pre-seed and seed-stage startups. You don’t need millions in revenue, but you should have a working prototype or early traction to be competitive.
❓ Do I need to be based in the U.S. to get in?
No. Speedrun is open to founders globally, and they offer visa support for international teams accepted into the program.
❓ Can solo founders apply, or do I need a co-founder?
Solo founders are welcome to apply. While having a team can help, Speedrun evaluates each founder on vision, execution ability, and alignment with the program.
❓ What’s included in the $1M investment?
Startups receive up to $1M in funding, generally on a SAFE or equity basis. There are no program fees, and founders also get access to over $5M in software credits and perks.
❓ How competitive is it to get into Speedrun?
Extremely competitive—acceptance rates are below 1%. However, many successful founders were rejected in previous rounds and reapplied with more traction.
Final Thoughts on Getting Into a16z Speedrun
Speedrun isn’t just an accelerator—it’s a launchpad for the boldest founders shaping the future of technology, AI, and entertainment. If your startup sits at the intersection of creativity, interactivity, and innovation, and you can move fast with a clear vision, Speedrun might be the perfect fit.✨
📌 Apply with ambition, clarity, and hustle—and even if you don’t get in the first time, keep building. Speedrun loves reapplicants who level up.
