The AgeTech Collaborative™ is looking for bold startups creating world-changing solutions to improve people’s lives as they age.
Our 8-week virtual accelerator helps AgeTech startup founders refine strategy, gain consumer insights, and connect with fellow founders all at no cost and no equity required.
Tap into decades of proprietary AARP research and real consumer insights to learn more about your target audience and market.
Leverage subject matter experts, growth marketing support, and UX/UI design consultation to validate your business and product strategy.
Set goals and tap into our program resources to accelerate your startup’s growth with the help of your dedicated portfolio manager.
Join a cohort of like-minded entrepreneurs navigating the same challenges. After the program, you’ll connect to the rest of the ecosystem: leading investors, testbeds, enterprises, and other startups, all united behind our mission of making aging easier for everyone.
*AARP 2023 Tech Trends and Adults 50+, Jan 2023 https://www.aarp.org/research/topics/technology/info-2023/2023-technology-trends-older-adults.html
The AgeTech Collaborative operates at the intersection of technology and longevity, with a deep understanding of both of these dynamic, growing markets.
1. Submit an Application to Pitch – Tell us about your startup.
2. Pitch at an Event – Participate in a 3-5 minute virtual or in-person pitch.
3. Startup Interview – Meet with the accelerator team for a 45-minute call.
4. Final Review – Startups are notified whether they’ve been accepted.
There are four accelerator program cohorts per year, each one including up to 15 startups. Our cohorts are run completely virtually, making them convenient to attend no matter where you’re located in the world, while still building connection and community between startups and staff.
As a mission-driven organization, we don’t ask for fees or equity to join the program. We amplify startups who are aligned with our mission to make aging easier for everyone, therefore your success is our success.
Due to our non-profit status, we are unable to give startups access to the AARP membership base or utilize the AARP brand in marketing your business.
We’re looking for startups with a consumer-ready product, a clear use case for the 50+ population, and a team committed to participating in the program. Participation typically involves 3–5 hours of virtual meetings and events each week.
Startups that are getting the most out of this program are dedicating 3-5 hours per week throughout the duration of the 8 week cohort.
You’re welcome to include as many team members as needed to get the most value from the program. It’s important to involve the right people from the start, but keep in mind that too many participants can slow down decision-making and progress.
Yes, there are opportunities for investment from AARP. Investment discussions are held with every startup in the cohort closer to the end of the 8-week program.
Yes. Many factors go into deciding who is invited to pitch, and strong companies may not be selected the first time. We encourage you to review the ATC’s guidelines and reapply when you’re ready. Demonstrating progress since your last application helps us see how your startup is evolving and strengthens your candidacy.
No but you need to either have a presence in the U.S. or be actively pursuing expansion into the U.S. market.
We work with a broad range of startups in the AgeTech space, including but not limited to, financial resiliency, healthcare, social engagement, accessibility, caregiving, or other areas in the longevity category. We are also looking for solutions related to healthspan and wellness that have applications to the 50+
Most likely, yes. We work with startups at various stages—from pre-revenue to more established companies. Because our program is tailored to each startup’s needs, we adapt our support based on where you are in your journey.
That won’t affect your chances of being accepted. We understand that multiple startups can approach the same problem in different, valuable ways. While we do try to avoid placing direct competitors in the same cohort, having a similar company already in the broader ecosystem is not a barrier to joining the program.
Applying to one of the AgeTech Collaborative Pitch Events is the first step towards becoming eligible for the Accelerator Program.
