Apply to Luminate, the OPI Accelerator, by Oct. 1 for Chance to Win $1M in Funding

Luminate NY, an international business accelerator for startups with optics, photonics, and imaging (OPI)-enabled applications, is offering early-stage startups an opportunity to grow their businesses. Luminate NY provides significant support, including an initial $100,000 convertible note, expert mentorship, and a chance to win up to $1 million in follow-on funding. The deadline to compete for a spot in Cohort II of Luminate is 11:59 p.m. EST, Oct. 1.

Technologies from Cohort I include several industry firsts: 3D superresolution nanoscale imaging for scientists, medicine, and pharma; 360/VR throwable tactical cameras for defense and public safety; a collapsible pop-up display for business and entertainment; high-resolution biomechanics imaging to improve optic disease diagnosis; and Gabor-domain optical coherence microscopy technology for noninvasive, optical biopsies.

Luminate NY will select 10 companies from a pool of applicants from around the world for this year’s competition. The company’s inaugural competition was held in June 2018 and awarded Boulder, Colo.-based Double Helix Optics the winner of the first round. This year’s winning companies will receive immediate investment and will be admitted to Luminate’s six-month accelerator program in Rochester, N.Y., starting in January 2019.

Leveraging an extensive network of industry experts, the rigorous program provides customized, structured curricula to guide startups through actionable business planning that is focused on commercializing and scaling their businesses. Members also benefit from working alongside peer OPI startups in the program. Upon graduation from the program in June 2019, the companies will compete for a total of $2 million in follow-on funding to further their business.

Applicants for Luminate NY must be incorporated, have people working full time on the business, and should have proven their core technology, preferably having developed a working prototype. Apply to Luminate at https://luminate.org/apply/.

“Having access to a global network of experts, comprehensive training, and funding can really help advance the trajectory of a startup, especially those that are developing emerging technologies,” said Luminate NY's executive director, Sujatha Ramanujan. “We’re looking for visionary entrepreneurs who want to make their mark — in innovation and industry.”

For more information on Luminate NY, view the Sept. 6 webinar on the Luminate program, “How to Accelerate Your Optics, Photonics, and Imaging Startup with Luminate.” Also visit www.luminate.org.