The Headstream Accelerator is a 16-week virtual program designed to support early-stage innovators developing digital solutions that improve youth mental well-being. The program specifically prioritizes solutions aimed at BIPOC, Latino, and LGBTQIA+ youth, with a particular focus on solutions designed for the education and healthcare markets. The accelerator provides participants with $30,000 in non-dilutive funding, a fully funded in-person kickoff event, customized curriculum, mentorship from a diverse advisory network, and access to potential investors and capital providers.

Since its inception, Headstream has supported more than 50 entrepreneurs, whose solutions have collectively reached over 10 million users and attracted more than $20 million in follow-on funding. A key component of the program is the Youth Co-Creator Club, which partners directly with participating entrepreneurs to provide valuable insights into cultural relevance, user experience, and product design.

The 2025 application period opens on January 23, 2025, and closes on March 16, 2025. Final interviews will be conducted between May 12 and May 23, 2025, with the final cohort selected by June 13, 2025. The program begins on August 4, 2025, with an in-person kickoff at the end of August, followed by virtual sessions for the remainder of the program. The program culminates with a larger in-person conference at the end of the accelerator.

Applicants are evaluated based on their product’s potential to positively impact youth mental well-being, its focus on BIPOC, Latino, and LGBTQIA+ youth, and its sustainability and scalability. Applicants must have a tech-based solution, with a functional prototype, market-ready product, or established solution. Solutions that only exist as theoretical designs or paper concepts will not be considered.

For-profit startups are expected to benefit most from the accelerator, but nonprofits, social enterprises, and research institutions with sustainable funding models are also welcome to apply. Full participation, including attendance at all sessions, events, and youth co-creation meetings, is required for selected participants.

For more information or to apply, visit: https://headstreaminnovation.com/accelerator.