The first outdoor accelerator on the east coast

Uniquely harnesses the outdoor industry and venture development expertise of mentors and partners to elevate your outdoor venture to the next peak. Cohort members are embedded in a strong network of mentors and peers that can help refine company plans and products, get critical feedback, and ultimately get to market faster.

The program components include action-focused peer cohort sessions, a robust outdoor industry mentor network, and assistance with access to growth capital. 

A Few Key Highlights:

• Based in Asheville and Western North Carolina, a region with a greater density of outdoor recreation companies than anywhere else in the east coast

• Embedded in a thriving and collaborative outdoor industry cluster of professionals and strategic partners, many serving as program mentors and advisors

• 12-session intensive program conducted semi-virtually, plus tailored mentorship opening at the Outdoor Economy Conference and concluding at the Get in Gear Fest

• Serving 10 outdoor startups per cohort from gear makers to experience providers and from concept to early sales

• Strong access-to-capital connections but you don’t have to give up any equity or take investment to participate – and there’s no cost for the first round

• Includes membership in the Outdoor Gear Builders of WNC

Check out some high-growth outdoor companies who have participated in past cohorts below.