Hardware Accelerator Frequently Asked Questions

  • Startups who are enthusiastic about developing technology that will improve our world!  We want companies that are ready to grow at Humanmade, become part of our creative community, and make this a better world through their participation.  

  • We expressly want to support under-represented founders of startups (ex: women, veterans, minorities, disaster-impacted, etc) as well as companies developing tech related to: hardware, additive & advanced manufacturing, clean manufacturing, clean transportation, health tech, and disaster response & preparedness.

  • We do not have any funding or investment prerequisites and we will accept startups at any stage of growth, from idea stage to production-ready and beyond.

  • The Accelerator program is free for all participants.  Humanmade does not take any equity or charge for any services within the program.  Humanmade is a non-profit organization and this program is funded primarily by the State of California as an Inclusive Innovation Hub (iHub).  

    Businesses that are not in the Accelerator program can join Humanmade through a paid membership, gaining access to all shop equipment, training courses, social events and workspace.  Scholarships are available, please inquire.   

  • We are funded as a State of California Inclusive Innovation Hub (iHub) that seeks to support under-represented business founders.  We are uniquely connected to 12 additional iHubs across the state and have access to exclusive funding streams because of this designation.  

    The iHub program aims to: advance critical technology development; address industry and societal challenges; foster collaboration and partnership development across industry, academia, government, nonprofits, civil society, and communities of practice; stimulate economic growth and job creation; and serve as a conduit to regional innovation and talent.  You can read more about this program on the Accelerate California site.

  • Businesses that complete the Accelerator program can continue to grow at Humanmade!  We rent low-cost desk space and provide all workshop equipment and space to businesses on an ongoing basis who wish to stay in the space.  We expect alumni to contribute to the greater Humanmade community by continuing to engage with their creative colleagues through in-person meetups, social events, and virtual networking.