Lighthouse Labs, one of Virginia’s leading seed-stage accelerators, has opened applications for its 18th batch, inviting innovation-driven startups to apply. Lighthouse Labs Batch 18 is an excellent opportunity for technology-led companies in fields such as FinTech, HealthTech, B2B SaaS, HardTech and dual-use solutions to scale their impact and disrupt their industries. Successful previous participants include VerbaAI from Batch 17, which became a significant player in digital forensics. Participants in Lighthouse Labs Batch 18 can expect to benefit from world-class mentors, $20,000 in equity-free funding, a tailored curriculum, and a culminating Demo Day for presenting their startup to investors and potential partners. The program, which runs from March 3, 2025, to May 16, 2025, is particularly appealing to startups with ambitious, high-impact ideas.

About Lighthouse Labs

Lighthouse Labs is back, and applications for Batch 18 are officially open! As one of Virginia’s premier seed-stage accelerators, Lighthouse Labs is ready to help innovation-driven startups scale their impact and change the world. If you have a technology-led company eager to disrupt industries—whether in FinTech, HealthTech, B2B SaaS, HardTech, or even dual-use solutions—Batch 18 could be your launchpad.

Success Stories and Opportunities

Lighthouse Labs has made its mark by delivering results for startups, many of which are now leading in their fields. Just take a look at VerbaAI, a standout from Batch 17 that leveraged the accelerator’s support to become a force in digital forensics, or Dr. Lauren Siff’s inspiring story of growth in Batch 17. Now, it’s your turn to take the leap.

Why Lighthouse Labs?

Joining Lighthouse Labs means more than simply getting into an accelerator program—it means joining a community of like-minded founders and gaining access to resources that can truly take your startup to the next level. Here’s what Batch 18 has in store:

  • World-Class Mentors: Tap into the experience of top mentors who have been there and done that. These mentors know what it’s like to be in your shoes and can offer strategic insights to help you avoid pitfalls and accelerate your journey.
  • Equity-Free Funding: Receive $20,000 in non-dilutive funding to help scale your operations. No strings attached.
  • Tailored Curriculum: You’ll go through an 11-week program with workshops and guidance designed to match your needs, whether you’re fine-tuning your product or preparing to pitch investors.
  • Demo Day: Present your startup to investors, community members, and potential partners at the culminating event of the program—a key opportunity to get exposure and find the right fit to take your business to new heights.

Who Should Apply?

Batch 18 is open to startups with big ambitions and even bigger ideas. Whether your startup is in FinTech, HealthTech, HardTech, or other high-impact sectors, Lighthouse Labs provides the ecosystem to support your growth. Their mentor network is equipped to guide founders across sectors, ensuring that your needs—no matter how niche or specialized—are met with tailored support.

The journey from innovation to industry disruption can be daunting, but Lighthouse Labs is all about investing in the lives of founders. Their mission is to help you succeed not just in building a business, but in making a meaningful impact. The new managing director, Art Espey, has brought a renewed vision to Lighthouse Labs, with a focus on inclusivity and bringing diverse founders to the forefront of innovation.

Important Dates

  • Application Deadline: December 12, 2024
  • Program Dates: March 3, 2025 – May 16, 2025

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to accelerate your startup’s journey. Whether you’re ready to go full speed ahead or just curious about what’s possible, this is your chance to get in front of investors, mentors, and a community that truly cares about founder success. Apply now and illuminate the path for your startup’s future!

Question & Answer

What is Lighthouse Labs Batch 18 all about?

Lighthouse Labs Batch 18 is an accelerator program inviting innovation-driven startups in fields like FinTech, HealthTech, B2B SaaS, HardTech, and dual-use solutions to scale their impact and disrupt industries.

What benefits can startups in Lighthouse Labs Batch 18 expect?

Startups in Batch 18 can benefit from world-class mentors, $20,000 in equity-free funding, a tailored curriculum, and a Demo Day for presenting their startup to investors and potential partners.

Who should apply for Lighthouse Labs Batch 18?

Batch 18 is open to startups with ambitious and high-impact ideas in sectors like FinTech, HealthTech, HardTech, and other fields looking to disrupt industries and scale their operations.