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Accelerator

Betaworks

Betaworks is a New York-based accelerator and venture firm focused on media, consumer technology, and AI. Founded in 2008, Betaworks runs themed cohort programs that invest $50,000 to $200,000 in early-stage startups. The 12-week program is known for its focus on emerging media formats, consumer products, and AI-driven applications. Betaworks has funded 150+ companies including Giphy and Bitly.

Applications Open Deadline: Rolling cohorts (themed batches) Last verified: September 10, 2026
Investment
$50,000 - $200,000
Equity
5-8%
Stage
Pre-seed, Seed
Location
New York, NY
Program Duration
12 weeks
Cohort Size
8-12 companies per cohort
Remote or Onsite
Hybrid (some in-person sessions in New York)
Application Fee
Free

Ready to apply to Betaworks?

Visit the official application page to get started.

Apply Now
Overview

About the Program

Betaworks is a New York-based accelerator and venture firm focused on media, consumer technology, and AI. Founded in 2008, Betaworks runs themed cohort programs that invest $50,000 to $200,000 in early-stage startups. The 12-week program is known for its focus on emerging media formats, consumer products, and AI-driven applications. Betaworks has funded 150+ companies including Giphy and Bitly.

Funding

Funding Structure

$50,000 to $200,000 for 5-8% equity. Follow-on funding through Betaworks ventures.

Initial Investment
$50,000 - $200,000
Equity
5-8%
Additional Funding
Follow-on investment through Betaworks ventures
Follow-on Funding
Betaworks ventures provides follow-on capital
Eligibility

Who Can Apply?

  • Early-stage startups in media, consumer tech, or AI
  • Founders from any country (global program)
  • Must have a working prototype or product
  • Some in-person sessions in New York required
Selection

What They Look For

  • Innovation in media, consumer tech, or AI
  • Strong product-focused founding team
  • Working prototype or demo
  • Large consumer market opportunity
  • Creative approach to product development
Requirements

What You Need to Apply

  • Completed online application
  • Product demo
  • Pitch deck
  • Founder video
Process

How to Apply

  1. 1Go to betaworks.com/apply
  2. 2Complete the application with demo
  3. 3Upload deck and video
  4. 4Submit before the deadline
  5. 5If selected, attend interviews
Timeline

Application Process

  1. 11. Submit online application with demo and deck
  2. 22. Betaworks partners review applications
  3. 33. Selected teams invited to interview
  4. 44. Final selection based on product and theme fit
  5. 55. If accepted, sign investment agreements
  6. 66. Join the 12-week program
Dates

Important Dates

Rolling themed cohorts. Check betaworks.com for current theme and deadlines.

Benefits

Program Benefits

$50,000 to $200,000 investment
12-week themed cohort program
Access to Betaworks studio and network
Mentorship from media and consumer tech experts
Demo Day with 200+ investors
Follow-on funding through Betaworks ventures
Connections to media and distribution partners
Selection

Selection Process

Online application, demo review, followed by interviews with Betaworks partners.

Industries

Industries and Focus Areas

ConsumerAISaaSEnterprise
Geography

Geographies and Countries

USAGlobal
Pitch

How to Approach This Investor

Recommended pitch type: Online application with product demo

SubjectN/A - Apply through the Betaworks online application
OpeningBetaworks accepts direct applications through their website.
ProblemDescribe the media or consumer problem you are solving.
TractionShow your working prototype and any user engagement.
MarketExplain the consumer market size and distribution strategy.
Why This InvestorExplain why Betaworks fits your media or consumer startup.
AskInvestment ranges from $50K to $200K for 5-8% equity.
Call to ActionApply at betaworks.com/apply.
Fit

Is This Program Right for You?

Best For
Media, consumer tech, and AI founders who want themed cohort support and distribution connections.
Strong Fit If
You are building a media, consumer, or AI product with a working prototype
Less Suitable If
You are building enterprise B2B software or have no prototype
Portfolio

Notable Portfolio Companies

GiphyBitlyDotsDALL-E (early access)Instapaper
Network

Mentors and Investor Access

Mentors
Media executives, consumer tech founders, and AI experts
Investor Access
Demo Day plus Betaworks investor network
History

Previous Cohorts

Running since 2008 with 150+ funded companies

Contact

How to Contact

Apply online at betaworks.com/apply.

Sources

Official Sources

https://www.betaworks.com/apply https://www.betaworks.com/about
Verified against official Betaworks website Last verified: September 10, 2026