New TechLaunch Accelerator Class Launching in Montclair

TechLaunch, N.J.’s first state-supported startup accelerator, which graduated its first class in November, opened its application process for its next class starting January 7 and ending in mid-February. The accelerator is staying at its original host location, Montclair State University.

In a twist, TechLaunch will be offering a 16-week program this time, as opposed to a 12-week program offered to the first class of graduates. The LaunchPad 2 program will begin in May and culminate in mid-September with Demo Day at Montclair State University.

TechLaunch is funded in part by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) and Angel investors. Modeled after successful programs throughout the U.S. and abroad, N.J.’s technology accelerator offers seed funding and an intensive mentor-driven business development program.

In fact, last year’s LaunchPad 1 program followed the classic 3-month timeline used by most startup accelerators, but Mario Casabona, founder and general partner, and his investors have decided to extend LaunchPad 2 to 16 weeks to “ensure an even greater command of the guiding principles behind follow-on funding activities and goals.”

Those interested in applying should go to the FAQ page, which describes details and qualifying conditions. For the application details go to the Apply page.