Frequently Asked Questions

A sector-focused pre-seed program is tailored to specific challenges a founder faces in those sectors. This approach enables us to curate highly focused expert sessions, arrange relevant customer meetings, and provide specific perks that align with the unique requirements of each sector, over a one-size-fits-all approach.

Atoms 4.0 is accepting applications for AI and Bharat.

Startups across sectors are welcome to apply to Accel Atoms. While we are looking for startups in AI and Bharat for Atoms 4.0, if you do not belong to one of these 2 themes, your application will be routed to the right members at Accel. Accel is a sector-agnostic VC firm.

Each cohort is unique in its program schedule, as they focus on distinct sectors and are run by different Partners in Accel. Please refer to the cohort pages for more information.

The best way to apply to Accel Atoms is through our website. We have a dedicated team and an automated process in place that keeps us from missing out on any applications. If you were referred to us by someone, we recommend you to fill the application.

We want to partner with 5-10 companies per cohort in this edition of Accel Atoms.

The startups which make the most progress during the program will be eligible for the $1M in investment.

As part of the Accel family, companies have access to 70+ perks worth more than $5M from our network partners.

Community: Gain access to Accel’s network of 300+ startup founders, 100+ angel investors and industry experts to guide you.

Customer: Accel facilitates finding your initial customers across enterprise and end-customer. Network with Accel’s portfolio of 200+ startups, enable industry contacts, and get access to playbooks to scale your idea.

1:1 Mentorship: Masterclass with Industry experts in AI & Bharat, along with customized takeaways & growth plan created in collaboration with cohort founders.

We want to support companies at the pre-seed stage, which have raised under $2M. In previous cohorts, we have invested across stages, including idea-stage and pre-product companies. We will continue to support companies across stages in Atoms 4.0.

The Accel Atoms program is relevant for startups all the way from the idea stage to generating revenue up to $1M.

We look forward to investing in the earliest stages of emerging ideas, irrespective of an MVP, with founders who can commit to building their company full-time.

Yes, you can apply if you are a solo founder. Some of the companies with solo founders that we have invested in Atoms include Brik, Ripik, and Skoob.

For the AI cohort, we are accepting applications from founders based in India & Indian-origin founders based anywhere in the world.

For the Bharat cohort, we are accepting applications from founders based in India.

We will invest up to $1M in startups which make the most progress during the program. For companies looking to raise more, we will consider them for Accel investments outside of Atoms.

Atoms will invest up to $1M in the form of equity or convertible note at the end of the program.

Atoms is designed to take founders from 0 to 1 with $1M in investment and network perks. We constantly evaluate progress of the startups in our cohorts, and based on their trajectory, consider them for follow on rounds or open up opportunities to meet other investors.