GENIUS NY is a startup accelerator sponsored by Empire State Development that invests $3M annually into seed-stage startups focused on uncrewed aerial systems, automation and advanced air mobility. 

Five finalists are selected for the GENIUS NY accelerator each year.

Winners receive a large investment; one grand prize winner receives $1 million, followed by four $500,000 investments to the remaining teams. ​Winners also receive workshops and events, business training, a dedicated group of executive advisors, industry mentors, free office space and amenities, and recruiting, marketing, and fundraising support.

Eligibility

Businesses must be venture backable and high growth potential.

• Business focus must be in the broader categories of:

  • Uncrewed systems, automation and advanced air mobility

• Willingness to operate under the Terms and Conditions set forth by GENIUS NY.

• Willing to commit to living on a full-time basis in Central New York for the period of the program.

• Able to speak or communicate in English.

• Able to travel to the United States with proper travel/work visa (GENIUS NY has no involvement or responsibility in securing participation entry documentation.)
  

Program Timeline

• February 8, 2024 – Applications Open for GENIUS NY Round 8  

• May 15, 2024 – Applications Close for GENIUS NY   

• Week of June 17, 2024 – Semi-Finalists Announced  

• Week of July 5, 2024 – Finalists Announced  

• Week of August 12, 2024 – Phase I of Accelerator Begins (Syracuse, NY)  

• October 27-28, 2024 – Pitch Finals (Grand Prize Winner Decided)  

• November 2024 – July 2025 – Phase II of Accelerator Begins