Applications for the Fall Founder Catalyst Program are open!

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — June 18, 2026 — Techstars, a leading global investor in early-stage startups, in partnership with the Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority (TCEDA) and The University of Alabama (UA), has opened applications for the upcoming Fall 2026 Techstars Founder Catalyst WaterTech & Sustainability program. Building on the momentum of two prior successful cohorts, this initiative aims to provide education and support to early-stage innovators shaping the future of watertech, energy, cleantech, climate resilience, and related sustainability industries with a backdrop of ecosystem support flowing through the Tuscaloosa and greater Alabama innovation ecosystem.

Techstars Founder Catalyst program is a 10-week, part-time, pre-accelerator program designed for founders who have raised less than $500,000. This primarily virtual program focuses on critical early-stage fundamentals, including customer discovery, product development, go-to-market strategies, and fundraising essentials. No investment is given, and no equity is taken in this Founder Catalyst program. The program is funded through the Innovate Alabama Tax Credit program, and it is free of charge to selected participants.

Participants in the Fall 2026 cohort will benefit from top-tier entrepreneurial masterclass sessions, pitch coaching, and peer group interactions. Each participating company will also benefit from Techstars’ extensive global network, gaining access to one-on-one mentorship from industry leaders, subject matter experts, and dedicated business generalists providing guidance and insight for their company’s specific needs and goals. This program provides both world-class entrepreneurial development resources as well as a connection point to a partner community steeped in water, energy, and sustainable scientific innovation with the presence of entities such as the Alabama Water Institute, the USGS Hydrologic Instrumentation Facility, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Techstars Program Lead, Audra Gibson, noted, “We recently had nineteen early-stage companies graduate from our spring WaterTech & Sustainability Founder Catalyst program, making impactful strides in AI, energy, water, solar, robotics, agriculture, waste, transportation innovation, and more. Based on the myriad of problems these founders tackled, we can’t wait to see what solutions the next cohort of founders will build.”

“We’re honored to expand our work with The University of Alabama and Techstars,” added the Executive Director of TCEDA, Justice Smyth. “These cohorts deepen our innovation ecosystem, offering founders vital tools and networks to launch breakthrough ventures.”

Key Program Dates & Information:

• Applications Open: June 18, 2026

• Applications Close: August 7, 2026

• Demo Day: November 17, 2026

• Program Duration: 10 Weeks (September 15, 2026 through November 20, 2026)

• Cohort Size: Up to 25 early-stage, for-profit companies will be selected.

• Format: Primarily virtual hybrid delivery, with one to two in-person elements taking place in the Tuscaloosa, Alabama area. Eligible local and US-based founders are encouraged to apply and do not need a direct university connection in order to participate.

Interested founders are encouraged to apply or learn more or by visiting the Techstars WaterTech & Sustainability Founder Catalyst Webpage.

For specific inquiries, contact the program team associates at saralila.cordero@techstarsassociates.com or hunter.stepanovich@techstarsassociates.com.

About Techstars

Techstars helps founders succeed. Through our global accelerators, we invest in early-stage startups led by founders building a better future for everyone. We leverage our vast network of alumni, mentors, partners, and investors to support entrepreneurs and build thriving startup communities. Since 2006, we have invested in industry-defining companies, including Chainalysis, Zipline, DataRobot, Alloy, and many, many more.

About TCIDA/TCEDA

The Tuscaloosa County Industrial Development Authority, dba the Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority, is the economic development agency for all jurisdictions within Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, for manufacturing, technology and knowledge-based investments. TCEDA is a one stop source for accessing site location data including available sites and buildings, financing, employee training, and incentives. Through its efforts and partnerships, the Authority strives to contribute to a positive quality of life for Tuscaloosa County and its citizens, through new opportunities, investment, jobs, and tax revenue.

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