By Tim Ryan

Lighthouse Labs is on the hunt for its next cohort of groundbreaking founders. Yes, you heard that right! Applications for Cohort 16 are officially open, and the program will run from March 4 to May 17, 2024. This is an incredible opportunity for high-tech, high-growth startups in our region to accelerate their journey.

Lighthouse Labs is seeking early-stage companies past the MVP stage and eyeing a pre-seed or seed investment round in the next 6-12 months. This is your chance to shine if you have a validated business model that can scale. They’re industry-agnostic but have a soft spot for Virginia-based and healthcare-related companies. How awesome is that?

#One of the most exciting aspects of Lighthouse Labs is their commitment to diversity. They’re not just looking for any founders; they’re looking for committed, ethical, and coachable individuals. Whether you’re a solo founder or have multiple co-founders, you’re the ideal candidate if you exhibit strong ethics, tenacity, and coachability. They also aim to include many traditionally underrepresented founders, including women, people of color, LGBTQ+, rural residents, people with disabilities, and veterans.

The best applicants often come from community referrals. So if you know someone who fits the bill, don’t hesitate to direct them to Lighthouse Labs. They can find FAQs, watch a pre-recorded info session, or apply directly from the site.

This is more than just an accelerator program; it’s a chance to put Hampton Roads on the innovation map. Our region’s storytelling of innovation and entrepreneurship is vital, and programs like Lighthouse Labs serve as catalysts for that narrative.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s show the world what Hampton Roads entrepreneurs are made of! Apply now, and let’s innovate together!