Home | AlphaLab

Through hands-on workshops, 1:1 sessions, and expert-led discussions, founders gain critical skills to refine their value proposition, validate product-market fit, upskill their sales abilities, and engage with real customers. By the end of the program, each founder will have a well-defined customer segment, a polished sales pitch, and a compelling sales deck — powerful tools to kickstart their customer acquisition journey.

From mastering the essentials of investor pitches and financial projections to building an investor-ready data room, our program ensures that founders are prepared at every stage of capital acquisition. Through interactive sessions led by experienced investors, alumni, and industry mentors, founders learn how to develop a compelling fundraising strategy, engage with investors effectively, and set themselves up for future growth.

AlphaLab is a thriving community that surrounds founders with support, resources, and connections to fuel their success. With a vast alumni network, an extensive bench of mentors, and strong local ties, our community ensures founders are never alone on their journey. Our in-person programming strengthens these connections, creating opportunities for invaluable peer learning, mentorship, and local partnerships that last well beyond the program.

Collaborative cohort based experience

Engage in structured, peer-to-peer support designed for quick learning and development within a defined accelerator timeline.

Dedicated workspace

Gain access to dedicated office space to work that includes access to meeting rooms and office equipment.

Mentorship from industry experts

Get actionable guidance from seasoned professionals to overcome challenges and refine your vision into a scalable business.

Workshops and networking events

Participate in targeted workshops and build meaningful connections that fuel progress and open doors to new opportunities.

Access to specialized equipment

Gain hands-on access to a machine shop, wet lab space, and other resources often out of reach for early-stage entrepreneurs.

Preparation to engage with investors

Refine your pitch and create investor presentations, financials, and data rooms with expert coaching to secure funding.

Take the Stage at Our Premier Investor Event

Showcase your product to top investors at a premier event spotlighting the Innovation Works portfolio’s potential.

AlphaLab Software is one of the earliest and most prestigious software startup accelerators in the nation. Established in 2008 as one of the first accelerators in the U.S., it has grown into one of the premier programs that make Pittsburgh a technology hub.

AlphaLab Gear helps hardware startups refine their products, strengthen their supply chain, and go to market. Established in 2013 as one of the first three dedicated hardware accelerators in the world, this track addresses the 75% of the economy devoted to physical goods.

AlphaLab Health gives life sciences startups a real-world proving ground for their products. Established in 2020 as a collaboration with Allegheny Health Network, AlphaLab Health equips startups with capital, clinical mentorship, private office space, and biosafety level 1 (BSL-1) laboratories.

The Robotics Factory Accelerate program capitalizes on Pittsburgh’s unparalleled strength in building robotics and automation companies. The program gives founders the tools they need to go from concept to commercialization by providing guidance on business and building prototypes and offering access to manufacturing resources, including a production-grade prototype scale shop.