New startup accelerator program seeks to foster tech company growth in Alexandria

An accelerator program to support new tech startups is launching in the city, the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership announced today (Wednesday).

The program will provide mentorship, coaching, technical support, capital connections and structured founder engagement for up to 15 startups over four to six months. It will serve startups in high-growth sectors such as robotics, aerospace, quantum, artificial intelligence (AI), energy tech, computer services, cybersecurity and defense.

AEDP has set up a request for proposals for a program operator.

This is the first direct support AEDP is making for startups in these tech industries. The program aims to support startups that already exist in the city.

“We know they want and need this support to grow in Alexandria,” said Philomena Fitzgerald, the small business and entrepreneurship manager for AEDP. “Our goal with this [request for proposals] is to find the right partner to create custom programming to help Alexandria entrepreneurs grow successfully while simultaneously improving the Alexandria start-up ecosystem.”

The program is one of the strategies through City Council’s recently adopted ALX Forward, a roadmap for the city’s future economic growth. Attracting high-growth industries and boosting support for entrepreneurs are key components of the ALX Forward strategy.

AEDP says the program will “inform the development of future services and programs geared at high-growth entrepreneurs.” The program operator will be encouraged to utilize spaces like Virginia Tech’s campus, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Northern Virginia Community College, National Science Foundation and National Innovation Quarter.

According to a Washington Business Journal report, the program has $200,000 in city funding for the first year, and AEDP could pursue additional funding beyond 2026 if the program succeeds.

The request for proposals will be open through March 25. The Washington Business Journal report said the accelerator program could begin in May following a selection of a program operator in April.