Colorado Thrives has partnered with Boulder-based Techstars, ZOMALAB and Strada Education Network to launch the Workforce Development Accelerator designed to address the challenges of the current labor market through innovative technologies, business models and solutions. The accelerator will work with 10 startups and two nonprofit organizations each year to help them accelerate their businesses through focused curriculum and hands-on mentorship.


The accelerator aims to democratize access to high-quality training, networks and jobs; enable individuals to make informed decisions about the professional pathways that best suit them; promote and increase awareness of non-degree pathways to employment; and support businesses in closing skill gaps and opportunity seekers in building professional networks.


Starting today, the program will begin accepting applications from nonprofit entrepreneurs interested in participating in the 2020 program. Eligible nonprofits must have an existing 501c3, a full-time CEO or Executive Director, and a 2020 budget of at least $250,000. Nonprofits interested in participating in this program are encouraged to learn more by visiting the program page and may apply here. Applications will be received for one month, closing on August 30,2020. An information session will be held on August 11th from 1:30-2:30 MT for nonprofits to learn more about the program, information about key timelines, the types of nonprofits the accelerator is interested in, and an open Q&A: https://www.crowdcast.io/e/ts_workforce_nonprofit


The Techstars Workforce Development Accelerator will kick off on November 2, 2020 and culminate in a demo day on February 11, 2021. This program is based in Denver, Colorado, but will operate in a virtual format for the 2020 program due to the COVID-19 pandemic.