Silicon Valley’s angel investor just opened applications for Launch Accelerator Cohort 35, starting September 2025. Jason Calacanis wants to fund your startup with $125,000 for 7% equity.
The 14-week program targets pre-Series A startups with real traction. Just companies that already have customers and revenue.
Launch Accelerator Focuses on Proven Startups
Launch Accelerator stands apart from other programs. They don’t accept idea-stage companies. Founders need actual traction before applying.
The requirements are specific:
- Enterprise companies need $2,000+ monthly recurring revenue with 20%+ monthly growth
- Consumer products need 3,000+ daily active users with 5%+ weekly growth
- Deep tech startups need an MVP and strong technical team
“We want prototypes more than PowerPoints,” states the accelerator website. This approach filters out early-stage founders who aren’t ready for serious funding discussions.
Jason Calacanis Brings Proven Investment Track Record
Calacanis has invested in over 300 startups during his career. His portfolio includes multiple unicorns like Uber, Robinhood, and Thumbtack. He achieved a one-in-seven unicorn rate from his first 21 investments.
“I invested in 21 companies and three of them turned into unicorns. That’s a one and seven track record, which is absurd,” Calacanis said in a previous interview.
The angel investor hosts “This Week in Startups,” one of the longest-running startup podcasts. His media platform gives accelerator participants direct access to potential customers and investors.
Cohort 35 Companies Get Silicon Valley Network Access
Launch Accelerator connects founders to Silicon Valley’s elite network regardless of location. The program runs virtually with 2-3 in-person sessions in San Francisco.
Current portfolio companies show the program’s reach. Cohort 35 includes startups like:
- Backtick (developer tools)
- Copia (content management)
- LumixAds (advertising technology)
- Socurely (cybersecurity)
- Treasure (fintech)
Alumni report significant growth after the program. Linda Gray from Mastertech doubled monthly recurring revenue and raised a pre-seed round. Chris Hamoen from Data Parrot grew to over 50 companies using their platform.
Weekly Investor Pitch Practice Sets Launch Apart
The accelerator requires founders to pitch real investors every week. No simulation exercises or practice rounds with mentors.
“What I loved about the Accelerator was pitching to actual investors every week. That access is incredibly hard to get on your own,” said Kev Bondzio from Streamfog, a Cohort 34 graduate.
This direct investor exposure accelerates fundraising timelines. Most graduates secure seed or Series A funding within months of completing the program.
Launch Targets Higher Valuation Fundraising
The accelerator focuses on helping founders raise at higher valuations. Calacanis uses his network and media platform to create buzz around portfolio companies.
Portfolio companies get priority speaking opportunities on “This Week in Startups” and Founder University events. This exposure helps startups attract top-tier investors and customers.
Launch also provides follow-on funding options. The firm reserves rights to invest $250,000 in the next two funding rounds for all accelerator graduates.
Application Process Remains Highly Selective
Launch Accelerator only accepts seven startups per cohort. This selectivity allows for intensive founder support and networking.
Applications are rolling, with Cohort 35 starting in September 2025. The program runs for 14 weeks with both virtual and in-person components.
Founders can apply at Launch Accelerator. The application process includes detailed traction metrics and founder background information.
Early-stage founders who don’t meet traction requirements can apply to Founder University, a 12-week course for pre-product startups. Top Founder University graduates often advance to the accelerator program.
