Temple students are particularly ambitious and had a need for a place where both they, and other members of the Temple community, could come together, share expertise and hopefully take the next big idea from concept to reality. That’s where the new accelerator space comes in.

Opened in 2019, the larger space, now replete with bean bag chairs and table games seen in any other startup one might encounter, is well positioned to usher in the next generation of problem-solvers and Temple Made business owners. As a part of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Institute (IEI), the accelerator welcomes a cohort of around 15 startups each cycle to participate in an eight- to ten-week program where they will hear from individuals who have found success in the start-up world.

The startups gain valuable experience learning how to pitch their ideas to potential investors, not to mention the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals. Some participants have found these partnerships so rewarding that they’ve gone on to the Be Your Own Boss Bowl, where they have the potential to receive further recognition and funding to bring their businesses to life.

"The greatest part of the Accelerator space is the opportunity to build community and interact with brilliant people.”

Greg Fegley, director of IEI Accelerator Programs, put it like this: “The greatest part of the Accelerator space is the opportunity to build community and interact with brilliant people you wouldn’t normally meet in your day-to-day. Participants in our programs learn about each other’s ventures and build trust as they get to know one another personally, which potentially fosters even greater innovation.”