Our Programs Fund and Support Entrepreneurs
Millions of funding dollars have flowed through The Tech Garden over the years to invest in, support, and educate entrepreneurs. At any given time, we operate multiple program types. From grants, business competitions, to direct investment and other programs, we offer what members need to achieve success.
Funding Programs
Our funding programs may be able to give your startup the initial funds needed to get off the ground or to expand.
Ignition GrantsIgnition Grants are available to Tech Garden Members in the Ideation Stage needing a maximum of $10,000 to get to the next level. |
Grants for Growth is an innovative funding program that selectively and competitively awards applications in two funding tracks; $25,000 and $150,000 awards are made based on the technical and commercial maturity of the application. Learn More |
TC Growth FundThe Technology Commercialization Growth Pre-Seed Fund is an early stage equity fund focused on technology commercialization. It provides critical pre-seed funding to incentivize new business formation and growth in New York State. |
Accelerator Programs
The Tech Garden runs accelerator programs that are designed to accelerate a cohort of entrepreneurs from one level of business development to the next in a relatively short period of time. The accelerators are always funded and always consist of intense programming and resource intervention that wrap around teams' needs in order to ensure success.
GENIUS NY is the world's largest business competition for unmanned systems. This one year accelerator comes with $2.75 million in funding for 6 finalists including our $1 million top prize! Learn More |
The Clean Tech Center is a two year accelerator with applications being examined on a rolling basis. A NYSERDA-funded initiative, it focuses on developing clean technology companies in Upstate New York. Startups can earn up to $15,000 based on achieving business milestones. Learn More |
Non-funding Programs
Our non-funding programs are great ways to find support for your big idea and some are even available for non-Tech Garden members. Often these programs can lead to further resources, connections, and investments. Follow The Tech Garden to keep informed about our current non-funding programs.
CNY Innovation Hot SpotThe Innovation Hot Spots are designated to 10 regions throughout New York State. Often referred to as a stepping stone to the STARTUP NY program, the Hot Spot program helps NYS incubators deliver programming and tax incentives. Learn More |
The Student Sandbox is a unique business incubator for aspiring entrepreneurs that accelerates ideation, development and deployment through mentoring and coaching. Learn More |
