The Boost Pad Programs | Startup Accelerator in Charlotte
The Boost Pad is a Charlotte-based startup accelerator empowering entrepreneurs in Mecklenburg County. Through mentorship, funding, legal support, and a thriving founder community, we help early-stage businesses launch, grow, and succeed.
WHAT WE OFFER
We equip founders with the resources, guidance, and community they need to launch, grow, and thrive. From expert mentorship and legal support to funding opportunities and networking, The Boost Pad is your launchpad for success.
A Thriving Founders’ Community
Connect with like-minded entrepreneurs in a supportive network that fosters mutual motivation, collaboration, and growth.
Pro Bono Legal Support
Benefit from complimentary legal consultations provided by CLIMB.
Startup Pitch Competitions
Compete for $5,000 Startup Currency Resource grants in our culminating pitch events.
Expert Mentorship
Gain guidance from our entrepreneur-in-residence and direct access to The Boost Pad’s team of seasoned experts.
Collaborative Learning Sessions
Join weekly cohort discussions with diverse community partners and industry experts on a range of relevant topics.
Networking Opportunities
Engage in periodic in-person events designed to connect you with fellow founders and potential partners.
What you should expect
- Get mutual support, motivation, and collaborative help from fellow founders.
- Access personalized guidance from our entrepreneur-in-residence and The Boost Pad's expert team through 1-on-1 office hours.
- Enjoy pro bono legal advice from CLIMB for clarity on crucial legal aspects.
- Access to entrepreneurial support organizations and diverse community resources for essential insights on your entrepreneurial journey.
- Unlock an extensive program valued at over $20,000, exclusively designed for you!
- Periodic networking and in-person events, fostering meaningful connections within The Boost Pad community.
Companies Not Suited for The Boost Pad
- Consulting ventures.
- Businesses operational for more than 5 years.
- Companies with more than 20 employees.
- Companies with annual revenues surpassing $175,000.
What Makes an Ideal Candidate
- If your business falls under one of our 5 Business Verticals: Mainstreet Business, Construction, Food Innovation, Hi-Growth/Hi-Tech, or Supplier Diversity/Logistics.
- If your business has a maximum gross revenue of $175,000.
- If your business plan include creating more jobs in the next 2-3 years.
Our Impact
The Boost Pad's impact speaks volumes. We support founders and nurture impactful businesses. Since our start, we've helped raise funding, created over 500+ jobs, and driven economic mobility. With over 150 success stories, we're reshaping Charlotte's entrepreneurial startup mobility. We are making a real impact promoting diversity within startup communities across the Charlotte region.
The Boost Pad offers a dynamic accelerator program for early-stage companies for 14 weeks, blending virtual and in-person sessions to maximize impact. Up to 20 companies are selected for each cohort. Do you think your company has what it takes?
The Next Level Cohort spans a 14-week program.
We offer two (2) cohort programs per year, with applications due on January (Winter) and July (Spring) respectively.
Thanks to Our Boost Pad Partners

