EC Accelerators · Nashville Entrepreneur Center
Connect. Build. Win big.
Join founders building companies through EC accelerators. Get mentorship, curriculum, and community. Three founders from Fall 2026 will be awarded non-dilutive Impact Grants at Nashville Entrepreneur Day.
Become a member Find your programApplications for Fall 2026 are closed. Applications for Spring 2027 will open shortly — members hear first.
Fall 2026 programs
Four accelerators. One community.
Each program is built for a specific stage. Fall 2026 applications are closed and Spring 2027 applications open shortly — join as a member now and you'll be first to know.
TakeOff
Achieve go-to-market faster. Our program for Nashville-based founders in any industry with a validated business plan looking to launch in the next 2-3 months or who have recently launched.
InFlight
Further your traction and go from momentum to milestones. Our program for Nashville-based, high-growth founders in any industry looking to accelerate their success and make meaningful connections.
Project Healthcare
An accelerator for health tech entrepreneurs and startups driving transformation in the healthcare industry. Offers tailored hands-on curriculum and connections, leveraging Nashville's vast healthcare ecosystem and support network.
PreFlight
The EC's virtual, on-demand digital course. Work through the fundamentals on your own schedule, no cohort calendar required.
Find your program
Not sure which fits? Take the quiz.
Answer a few questions about your stage and goals, and we'll point you to the right accelerator.
Every accelerator includes
Fall 2026
The season at a glance.
Deadline
Application and supporting materials submitted
Selections made
Successful candidates notified and invited to join the cohort
Onboarding
Meet your cohort and mentors, and prepare for launch
Programs run
12 weeks of intensive curriculum and mentorship
Nashville Entrepreneur Day
Show Nashville what you've been building
All programs align on this schedule for shared events, cross-program networking, and efficient planning.
Why founders join
Stop building alone.
"One of my biggest takeaways from the InFlight program has been the power of mentorship—having someone who can help you see your blind spots and challenge your assumptions."
Program FAQs
The practical stuff.
What are the EC Impact Grants?
How much funding is available?
We are awarding three grants:
- 1st Place: $25,000
- 2nd Place: $10,000
- 3rd Place: $5,000
Additionally, in-kind services will be awarded to winners.
Who is eligible to apply for the EC Impact Grants?
Only founders accepted into one of the EC's Fall 2026 accelerators are eligible:
- TakeOff
- InFlight
- Project Healthcare
You must be actively participating in the program and submit a written application mid-program to be considered.
What is the Impact Grant application process?
- Mid-Program: Founders will complete a written application detailing their traction, impact, use of funds, and program engagement.
- Review Panel: Applications will be reviewed by a judging committee of the EC's CEO, board members, and select partners.
- Winners Announced: All awards will be announced during Winter Nashville Entrepreneur Day.
How are winners selected for the EC Impact Grants?
A scoring rubric will evaluate each applicant on:
- Clarity of vision
- Execution and use of funds
- Traction or business validation
- Growth and coachability
How much time should I expect to commit each week?
Who is eligible to apply for the accelerators?
Are the accelerators in-person or virtual?
- In-person: TakeOff and InFlight meet weekly in person at the EC in downtown Nashville.
- Hybrid: Project Healthcare runs virtually with required in-person visits to Nashville at key points in the program.
- PreFlight is virtual and on-demand only.
Is there a cost to participate in the accelerators?
Yes, each program has a unique pricing structure based on its design and depth of support. Details are listed on each program's individual page.
Can I apply to more than one program?
Can my co-founder or team members participate in the program?
Yes, with a few guidelines:
- Your program tuition covers one founder and the business.
- If you'd like to have a co-founder participate as well, they may join at 50% of the full tuition.
- Key team members (like a CTO or CMO) may attend select sessions where their expertise is directly relevant, but participation should be limited.
- You may designate up to two primary founders total.
Do you offer financial assistance?
Do you take equity?
How do I know which program is right for me?
How do you choose which companies are accepted?
Two ways in
Ready when you are.
Applications open shortly
Fall 2026 applications are closed. Spring 2027 applications open shortly — become a member now, get access to advisors and the community today, and be first in line.
Become a memberStill deciding
Take the two-minute program quiz and see which accelerator matches where your business is today.
Find your programEC Accelerators are programs of the Nashville Entrepreneur Center.