Gateway Technical College’s Launch Box growth accelerator has opened the application process for entrepreneurs who wish to engage in the program’s ability to give start-up business a quick start through support, access to high-growth and technology-driven mentorship and commercialized assistance.

Businesses that qualify generally have a well-established idea and are ready to use the intensive program to get their product or prototype to market.

The accelerator was funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration through its growth accelerator fund competition. Gateway Technical College was one of 50 winners out of 800 applicants for the first competition, with $50,000 granted to its Launch Box Accelerator Program in Racine.

The accelerator is a 12-week, hands-on program open to entrepreneurs, and priority focus may be given to veteran, minority, women and other underrepresented-led start-ups. Businesses must be located in Racine, Kenosha or Walworth counties. Regional experts will make up a selection committee that will review applications and determine who will be admitted into the program.

Five entrepreneurial teams will be selected in the first cohort that will begin March 2, 2015, and a result of the program is $10,000 in seed grants. There is a “folding” requirement for graduates, in that they will be expected to give back by mentoring future cohorts.

Visit www.gtc.edu/accelerator to learn more or apply for the first Launch Box growth accelerator program.

For further information, please contact Kristin Niemiec, Launch Box manager, (262) 898-7404, or niemieck@gtc.edu.