Genius NY 2024 Competition
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
