Applications for the 2025 Disney Accelerator Program are now open. This corporate accelerator program is starting its second decade of helping growth-stage startups at the forefront of the fields. This is done by bringing them together with Disney’s creativity, innovation, and acumen for an intensive three-month program.
Disney’s success and leadership have always had a core of creativity and technology coming together. The Disney Accelerator program fosters the same blend of innovation and imagination. This offers a unique opportunity for selected startups to connect with Disney’s leadership. They get to tap into its one-of-a-kind expertise to explore and developed new entertainment experiences, technology, and products.
“Technological curiosity and innovation have always been foundational hallmarks of Disney’s storytelling, allowing our creatives to make ever-changing magic that delights each generation of fans and guests,” said Bonnie Rosen, General Manager, Disney Accelerator. “Today, that extends to all the horizons of media, sports, and experiences, and we’re incredibly excited to welcome a new cohort of companies who share our passion for always reimagining the future.”
Over the course of the last decade, Disney Accelerator has super-charged some incredibly innovative startups. This includes Epic Games, Kahoot, Eleven Labs, Status Pro, and others. To date, 65 companies have made investments and collaborated with Disney as a part of this program.
With the applications opening for this year’s Disney Accelerator, Disney shared some details about the program. Check them out here:
Insider the Accelerator
The Disney Accelerator program offers a unique opportunity for selected cutting-edge startups that align with Disney’s vision for the future of entertainment and technology. As part of the program, Disney provides participating companies with investment capital, access to co-working space at Disney’s campus, and mentorship and guidance from top Disney executives and their teams.
This year’s program kicks off in July and culminates with a Demo Day in November, where participants will showcase what they have developed and explored with Disney.
Calling All Innovators
Disney Accelerator is welcoming growth-stage startups with innovative technologies and business concepts that align with and complement The Walt Disney Company’s portfolio of products, experiences, and businesses.
Companies in all fields are welcomed to apply, though the 2025 Disney Accelerator has a particular focus on those working at the forefront of extended reality (XR) and immersive media, artificial intelligence & machine learning, sports technology, robotics/embodied AI, connected play, haptics, and Generation Alpha experiences.
Eligibility
The Disney Accelerator program is open to venture-backed, growth-stage startups with a vision for making an impact on the future of technology and entertainment. Cohorts range from 5 to 10 companies.
To learn more about terms and eligibility, see these FAQs.
LICK PHOTO TO WATCH: 2024 Disney Accelerator Demo Day
Last year’s Disney Accelerator Demo Day spotlighted the innovation of our 2024 cohort. Cohort members presented their demos to an audience of peers and industry leaders, including Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company.
Applications for the 2025 Disney Accelerator are now open and interested companies can apply now.
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