Madworks Seed Accelerator

Madworks Seed Accelerator is a distinctive, equity-free accelerator program based in Madison, Wisconsin, dedicated to fostering the growth of early-stage startups. Unlike traditional venture capital firms, Madworks does not take equity in the companies it supports, positioning itself as a resource-rich platform for entrepreneurial development. The accelerator operates as a collaborative effort, stemming from a partnership between the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF), the UW-Madison Discovery to Product (D2P) program, and the University Research Park, leveraging the robust innovation ecosystem of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Its core mission is to equip entrepreneurs with the necessary tools, knowledge, and networks to transform their innovative ideas into viable businesses.

The program offers a structured curriculum, comprehensive mentorship from experienced professionals, and unparalleled access to a broad network of industry experts and potential investors. This holistic approach is designed to guide startups through critical development phases, from refining their business models to preparing for external funding opportunities. A key component of Madworks' support is the financial assistance provided to its participants. Upon successful completion of the accelerator program, each participating startup receives a $10,000 grant, which is intended to help them further their development without the burden of equity dilution. This grant serves as a direct financial injection, enabling founders to cover initial operational costs or invest in critical early-stage activities.

Since its inception in 2014, Madworks Seed Accelerator has played a significant role in the Midwest's startup landscape, successfully graduating over 50 companies by 2020. These alumni ventures have gone on to collectively raise substantial follow-on funding from various external sources, underscoring the accelerator's effectiveness in preparing startups for the broader investment ecosystem. Madworks focuses on building strong foundations, providing the strategic guidance and practical support necessary for companies to become attractive to subsequent seed and venture capital investors, rather than acting as a direct equity investor itself. Its unique, grant-based model makes it an appealing option for founders looking for non-dilutive capital and robust mentorship.