UMSL Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center kicks off year four of their Accelerator Cohort! Applications will officially open Nov. 3, 2023, for underrepresented entrepreneurs in the St. Louis- area ready to take the leap, elevate their mindset and grow their business! Don’t be afraid to try. No matter where you’re at in your entrepreneurial journey! Our theme this year is continuous improvement, more efficacy because what we’re doing is working. If you’re thinking about it, ACT TODAY!”
The UMSL Anchor Accelerator is a first-of-its kind program that puts underrepresented entrepreneurs at the center of a purpose-driven, university-led accelerator that begins with a non-dilutive $50,000 capital injection. This accelerator would not be possible over the years without the anonymous support of friends and the public commitment of Ameren Corporation, Edward Jones, Anheuser Busch Foundation and Kauffman Foundation:
We are looking for the best and brightest underrepresented entrepreneurs with creative solutions, technologies, and business models for improving the region's economic disparities.
"Our vision calls us to be a beacon of hope and a force for good. By applying an entrepreneurial mindset and creating action, we assist in transforming lives and creating better outcomes." — Dr. Kristin Sobolik, Chancellor at the University of Missouri - St. Louis
Our vision is a Greater St. Louis where ALL entrepreneurs have equal access to developing and growing businesses, resulting in job growth, wealth creation, and community improvement throughout the region.
We aim to promote inclusion of underrepresented groups in the St. Louis startup ecosystem by empowering diverse founders from our anchored communities. We believe that empowerment begins with capital, followed by instruction and mentorship. We succeed by:
Providing non-dilutive capital to underestimated startup founders;
Leading a best-in-class business development program that facilitates access to networks, mentors, subject matter experts, and customized educational support; and
Leveraging University of Missouri - St. Louis resources such as paid student interns, active alumni, and engaged faculty to amplify startups with further research, grant applications, and guidance.
UMSL is the only public university in the region to carry dual AACSB accreditations for its business and accounting programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
