About
The SPEAR Accelerator, an initiative powered by the Veterans Entrepreneurship Initiative (VEI), is dedicated to empowering veteran-led tech startups into industry leading ventures.
Each cohort is strategically focused on an industry vertical, providing tailored support, expert mentorship and strategic collaboration opportunities with major industry leaders
We harness the unique leadership skills, tenacity, and resilience of veterans, pairing them with the resources, mentorship, and network they need to make a significant impact in the technology sector.
SPEAR Accelerator:
Health Tech Cohort 2025
Our inaugural cohort Health Tech 2025 focuses on AI in Healthcare, Neuro Tech and Digital Health in collaboration with the Center for Bioengineering Innovation and Design at Johns Hopkins University.
The collaboration aims to harness and scale veteran-led innovations by providing access to expert mentorship, resources, and strategic collaboration opportunities.
Why Participate?
Our intensive, 3 month accelerator program, in collaboration with the Center for Bioengineering Innovation and Design at the Johns Hopkins University, is designed to accelerate the growth of early-stage tech startups led by veteran entrepreneurs.
Industry Collaboration
Each cohort focuses on a particular industry or emerging tech vertical, ensuring subject matter expertise and targeted growth.
Mentorship
Engage in 1:1 mentorship with national experts and receive personalized guidance tailored to your startup.
Tailored Workshops
Participate in weekly workshops helmed by tech mavens, focusing on pivotal topics faced by early-stage veteran-led startups.
Networking Opportunities
Gain access to a powerful network of investors, stakeholders, and industry pioneers at multiple events.
Focus Areas
AI in Healthcare
Neuro Tech
Digital Health
Timeline
August 2024
Applications Open
October 18, 2024
Applications Deadline
November 2024
Cohort Selection
February 2025
Cohort Start
May 2025
Cohort Graduation
Eligibility
Market Traction
An innovative veteran-led startup with evident traction in Healthcare with alignment to at least one of the three focus areas: AI in Healthcare, Neuro Tech and/or Digital Health.
Veteran Leadership
At least 10% ownership by a veteran holding a C-level position.
Financial Traction
Minimum of $250,000 in annual revenue or ability to demonstrate traction in the market if pre-revenue.
Product Momentum
Clear evidence of product acceptance and growth momentum in the market (e.g. customer acquisition, proof of concept, active pilots, secured R&D funding, capital investment, etc.)
Join the Mission to Propel Veteran-Led Innovation
Are you a seasoned entrepreneur, domain expert, or investor looking to make an impact?
SPEAR Accelerator is seeking mentors, advisors, and strategic partners to guide and invest in the next wave of veteran-led innovation. Share your expertise, expand your network, and help empower veteran entrepreneurs to lead in the Health Tech space.
Partners
FAQs
For Startups
For Mentors, Experts, and Investors