!! Due to high interest, the application period for DEA Accelerate has been extended until 29.08. !!
About Us
We empower women entrepreneurs to get started and thrive in the business world. Through tailored support, mentorship, and resources, we aim to foster a vibrant community where female-led organizations can flourish and make their mark. Join us as we champion diversity, innovation, and female leadership in entrepreneurship!
Entry Criteria
We carefully select candidates who show great ideas, growth potential, and a strong drive to make a difference in their fields, but generally teams that are chosen fit the following profile:
⚪️ Female Ownership
Applicants must demonstrate at least 51% ownership by women, ensuring a commitment
to fostering female-led enterprises.
⚪️ Innovation & Potential
We seek innovative businesses with high growth potential, regardless of industry, that are poised to make a significant impact in their respective markets.
⚪️ Commitment to Impact
Applicants must exhibit a strong dedication to creating positive environmental and societal change through their entrepreneurial endeavors.
PROGRAM
DEA Accelerate and its program are designed to operate outside of regular business hours, with each mentoring session scheduled in advance with the teams and held in person in Sofia.
⚪️ 1:1 Mentorship Sessions
Participants will get personalized meetings with our expert mentors, providing tailored guidance and support, as well as check-in calls with the DEA team upom request.
to fostering female-led enterprises.
⚪️ Weekly Lectures by Topic
Each week, we will host an exclusive in-person learning session led by a carefully selected expert, covering key topics from the program. For the full schedule and details, please visit the program page.
⚪️ Pitch Days
The program includes several mini pitch days before a final demo day, where participants present to potential investors.
FAQ
Please note that official program communication online and in the media, as well as pitch days, will be conducted in English. Weekly lectures will be held in Bulgarian unless otherwise specified.
⚪️ Who can participate?
Women-led startups in the early stages (idea to pre-seed) from any industry are welcome to apply. Applications are open to startups at idea and early-stage levels.to fostering female-led enterprises.
⚪️ Is there a cost to enter?
No, the program is free for the selected participants. You will receive information on the result of your application early September.
⚪️ Do I need to have a registered company to join?
No. You can apply with just an idea, but you should be ready to actively work on turning it into a business.
2024 Edition
100+
CANDIDATES
14
SELECTED STARTUPS
20+
MENTORS
100k €
FUNDING
14+
EVENTS
120+
HOURS OF MENTORSHIP
Media
Partners
