Whether you're a first-time founder or a repeat entrepreneur, getting into an accelerator like Techstars can be a game-changer. But with thousands of applications and only a handful of spots in each program class, what really makes a company stand out?

In a recent Inside a Techstars Accelerator workshop, Christine Hong, senior investment manager for the Techstars New York City Accelerator, Eoghan O'Flaherty, program manager for the Techstars London Accelerator, and Nick Culbertson, managing director of Techstars AI Health Baltimore powered by Johns Hopkins University and CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield, shared insider advice on how to dramatically increase your chances of getting accepted into Techstars.

Here's a breakdown of the most valuable takeaways:

1. The Application Is Your First Pitch

The Techstars application consist of three main parts:

1. Basic Information – Quick details about you and your company.

2. Company Overview – Where most of the depth happens.

3. Accelerator Selection – Choose your top three programs.

Don't leave any section blank. Applications are sometimes impressive, except they skip explaining the actual problem being solved. That’s an instant red flag.

2. Define the Problem Without Talking About Your Company

One of the biggest mistakes founders make is jumping into their solution before clearly articulating the problem.

Why does this matter? It helps Techstars understand who your customer is and what pain point you’re solving — without needing to know your product yet. That’s how they begin to assess whether they can help you and how big the opportunity really is.

3. Pitch the Solution With Clarity, Not Buzzwords

Avoid jargon like “disruptive AI + IoT + blockchain.”

Instead, clearly state what your product does and what value it brings.

4. Traction Isn't Just Revenue, It's Proof

While recurring revenue is great, early-stage traction can come in many forms:

• Validated LOIs (Letters of Intent)

• Consistent beta usage

• Waitlists (only if highly qualified)

• Customer interviews with quantified interest

The sweet spot? 20% month-over-month growth. But if you’re not there yet, show how you’re validating demand now, not someday.

“Startups without any form of validation are unlikely to stand out,” said Nick. “You have time between now and the deadline. Go get proof people want what you’re building.”

5. Team Is Everything (No, Really)

Techstars invests in people first. Ideas evolve. Markets shift. But the founders remain the constant.

What Techstars looks for in a team:

• Obsession: You go deep into your problem space

• Founder-Market Fit: You’re the right person for this challenge

• Complementary Strengths: Ideally a builder + seller combo

• Resilience: You’ll keep going when it gets tough

• Coachability: You can learn, adapt, and stay focused

And yes, solo founders can get in — but you’ll need to demonstrate that you have the required skills and the ability to attract talent, advisors, and support.

6. Market Size Must Make Sense for VC Math

Techstars wants to invest in potential billion-dollar businesses. That doesn’t mean you need to be a unicorn today, but you should be aiming for a market large enough to get there.

And don’t forget: If no other startups have entered your space, it might be too early, or not a real market.

7. Understand Your Competition

When it comes to competitive analysis, you must list both incumbents and recent startups in your space.

We want to know:

• You're aware of your competition

• You’ve identified your edge

• Your product is 10x better for a specific reason (not just “cheaper”)

And yes, even DIY tools (like spreadsheets or custom hacks) count as competition if that’s what your customer is using today.

Final Advice: Think Like a VC

As Christine said, “Investors want every investment to have the potential to return the entire fund.”

That means:

• Think big

• Show realistic paths to large markets

• Minimize reasons to say no

Your job is to make the Techstars team want to bet on you, not just because of your product, but because of your insight, conviction, and drive.

Applications Are Open

Techstars is currently accepting applications for Spring 2026 accelerator programs. Use this advice, take time to validate your idea, and craft your application like it's your first investor pitch — because it is.

Pro tip: Don’t wait until the last minute. Apply early so the team has time to really dive into your story.

The Techstars team hosts virtual events regularly. These events are free and invaluable to anyone looking to develop their skills. Visit the Techstars events page to find out more about our upcoming events.

The Accelerator Hub is another great resource for founders interested in learning more about Techstars and the programs we offer.

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