What we fund
Alberta-based tech
Early-stage startups
Various B2B sectors
Proven product demand
Early-stage growth financing for Alberta tech
Are you an Alberta tech startup seeking early-stage capital for growth, but not yet VC-round ready? Accelerate Fund provides a source of funding as a first step in preparing for VC funding in the future upon execution of your business.
We invest in entrepreneurs leading tech startups that are private, incorporated, and have a head office and more than 50% of employees located in Alberta. Typically, we focus on information and communications technology, energy technology, life sciences, agriculture and biotech. The $10-million Accelerate Fund I and Fund II are fully invested. We are actively seeking qualified investments for the $23-million Accelerate Fund III.
We co-invest with angels & other co-investors
The Accelerate Fund seeks to bring multiple investors into deals and encourages collaboration among angels and other venture capital funds. We typically invest $250,000 into our first financing round with a new company. We require matching dollars from angel or private co-investors, which often results in a multiplier effect of two to three times the amount of our investment.
An ideal situation might involve a company that has three investors funding $250,000 each, but has a need for an additional $250,000. The Accelerate Fund III could provide the additional $250,000 thus seeing leverage of four times its investment. We work with other VC funds, formal angel groups, super-angels, family funds, and individual angel investors.
Our contribution beyond dollars
Beyond financing, our investment team are dedicated mentors and trusted advisors to Alberta’s tech and investment community.
Accelerate Fund III is managed by Yaletown Partners with support from the A100. Yaletown is one of Canada’s most active technology investors and has invested over $450M in 75 companies across Canada. Yaletown performs the due diligence and makes the investment decisions for Accelerate Fund III.
Additionally, Yaletown, the A100 Industry Chair and A100 members provide coaching, mentorship and support to Accelerate Fund companies. This group of experienced technology entrepreneurs is available as a hands-on resource including connecting portfolio companies with key industry contacts, providing business advice, and supporting governance at the board level.