WTIA Selects 19 Startups for Founder Accelerator Program

The Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA) has announced the 19 startups chosen for the 13th WTIA Founder Cohort Accelerator Program, giving early-stage companies across Washington state access to mentorship, networking opportunities, and business support designed to accelerate growth.

The four-month accelerator is part of the WTIA Startup Program and is aimed at helping founders scale their businesses, increase revenue, secure investment, and expand their teams.

Supporting Washington’s Startup Ecosystem

The WTIA Founder Cohort has become one of Washington’s leading startup accelerator programs, providing entrepreneurs with education, experienced mentors, investor connections, and a collaborative community.

This year’s accelerator officially begins this month and will continue through February, offering participating startups practical guidance as they move from early development toward commercial growth.

According to WTIA, the program focuses not only on business education but also on building lasting relationships between founders, mentors, investors, and industry experts.

Program Manager Koki Sato said the accelerator is designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen their companies while becoming part of a supportive startup community that can contribute to long-term success.

Meet the 19 Selected Startups

The companies selected for the 13th Founder Cohort Accelerator Program represent a diverse range of industries, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, enterprise software, sustainability, healthcare, fintech, and emerging technologies.

The selected startups are:

• Aira Security
• Cr3ate.ai
• Devplan
• DrunR
• InnoMat.AI
• Koniva
• LemiLeap
• NailedIT
• Nurano Labs / Color42
• Oikyo
• Optimly
• Pilotlight
• REearthable
• Rising Wines Collective
• Saltwyk
• SkyTax
• Tato
• VRenity
• One stealth startup

The broad mix of companies highlights the diversity of Washington’s growing startup ecosystem, with founders building solutions across multiple industries.

A Strong Track Record

Since launching, the WTIA Founder Cohort has supported more than 300 startups throughout Washington state.

According to WTIA, alumni companies from previous accelerator cohorts have collectively raised more than $400 million in funding, demonstrating the program’s role in helping startups secure investment and grow their businesses.

By combining mentorship, education, networking, and investor access, the accelerator has become an important resource for founders looking to transform promising ideas into scalable companies.

Building the Next Generation of Startups

As competition for startup funding continues to evolve, accelerator programs remain valuable for entrepreneurs seeking guidance and industry connections during the early stages of building a company.

With its latest cohort now underway, WTIA continues its mission of strengthening Washington’s innovation economy by supporting founders as they refine their products, grow their customer base, and prepare for future fundraising opportunities.

The selection of 19 startups for the 13th Founder Cohort underscores the continued momentum of Washington’s technology ecosystem and highlights the next generation of companies aiming to make an impact across AI, software, sustainability, healthcare, and other fast-growing sectors.

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