A High-Octane Startup Accelerator
At Rowan University, summer isn’t just time off—it’s launch time.
Since 2018, AccelerateRU has been Rowan’s high-octane startup accelerator, empowering student innovators to transform bold ideas into thriving, real-world businesses. Whether you’re crafting a breakthrough product, building the next big tech platform, or scaling a service with serious potential, this 10-week sprint is designed to supercharge your progress.
Running from June through August, AccelerateRU isn’t just a program—it’s your runway. With strategic mentorship, hands-on funding, and access to elite campus resources, the accelerator gives student founders the tools—and the traction—to take off.
What AccelerateRU Delivers
Every selected venture receives a personalized launch kit, packed with high-impact support to accelerate momentum:
Seed Funding
Teams can secure up to $5,000 in startup capital to jumpstart development, with the possibility of additional funding based on progress, impact, and scalability.
One-on-One Coaching
Each team is paired with a dedicated coach for weekly strategy sessions and benefits from a robust network of Startup Gurus, Rowan faculty, and subject matter experts in focused bi-weekly masterclasses.
Creative Workspaces and Tools
Participants gain full access to the Rowan Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (RCIE)—including co-working zones, meeting rooms, and the hands-on Studio 231 maker space. These resources are designed to power creativity and collaboration.
Professional Services
Startups receive in-kind support such as legal counsel, branding tools, and essential software—services aimed at removing friction and helping teams stay focused on growth.
Follow-On Investment
Program graduates may apply for equity-based funding through the Rowan Innovation Venture Fund (RIVF), led by startup attorney Ernest Holtzheimer. While not every startup will take this path, those ready to scale can work with their coach to explore investment opportunities.
Who’s Driving the Program?
AccelerateRU is led by Jessica Vattima, an entrepreneur with a media production background and deep experience in venture development. As head of Rohrer College of Innovation & Entrepreneurship, she and her team of coaches and mentors ensure that the program moves at a fast, focused pace—encouraging constant experimentation, learning, and iteration.
Who Can Apply?
Any Rowan student with a solid idea and the drive to build it can apply—including those graduating this spring or who’ve earned a degree within the past year. The program is open to graduate and medical students, as well as students at RCGC and RCBC. Collaborative projects with Rowan faculty are also welcome.
AccelerateRU takes a flexible, founder-first approach to funding. Resources are allocated based on the specific needs, milestones, and vision of each startup.
To apply, students must register themselves and their venture on StartupTree, Rowan’s official platform for entrepreneurs. Applications open in April and close in May, so timing is crucial.
Why AccelerateRU Matters
AccelerateRU isn’t just about launching businesses—it’s about launching futures. With structure, funding, and expert support, the program empowers Rowan’s student founders to move from concept to execution and from experimentation to impact.
If you’re ready to stop planning and start building, AccelerateRU is your next move.