The gBETA Gulf Coast is a free, seven-week accelerator program designed for early-stage startups looking to scale their businesses and raise venture capital. The program is industry-agnostic and supports companies across various verticals, including manufacturing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, augmented reality, and more. Up to five companies are selected from a competitive applicant pool to participate in each cohort, receiving hands-on mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to funding resources. The program is facilitated by gener8tor, a nationally ranked accelerator, and is held primarily in Mobile, Alabama, with a hybrid format that includes in-person and virtual components.

The primary objective of gBETA Gulf Coast is to prepare startups for participation in full-scale investment accelerators or seed funding rounds. Throughout the program, participants engage in weekly strategy meetings, "Lunch & Learns," and "Mentor Swarms," which introduce them to key industry leaders, investors, and potential partners. Startups also receive individualized coaching on growth strategies, fundraising, and investor readiness. Additionally, participants gain access to $1M+ in perks from vendors such as IBM Cloud, Amazon, Microsoft, and PayPal.

The program does not require equity or fees from participating startups, making it an attractive opportunity for founders seeking non-dilutive support. However, participants must be based in the Gulf Coast region and commit to at least 85% of the program's scheduled activities, which include a mix of structured sessions and independent work. The ideal candidates are companies that have already launched a product or minimum viable product (MVP) and demonstrate early traction or market potential. The program is not suited for brick-and-mortar businesses or service-based companies.

The application process includes a competitive selection process, with the deadline for the Spring 2025 cohort set for March 7, 2025. The program will officially begin on March 27, 2025, and conclude on May 16, 2025. Selected startups will participate in a structured curriculum, culminating in an "Investor Swarm" event where they pitch directly to potential investors. The post-program support includes continued mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to additional gener8tor resources such as industry conferences and curated pitch sessions.

Eligibility requirements emphasize openness to feedback, coachability, and a willingness to engage with investors and mentors. Founders must be prepared to discuss their business model and scaling strategies transparently. The program is designed for companies ready to refine their sales strategies and explore venture-backed growth opportunities. Although no investment is provided during the program, participants gain valuable exposure to investors and accelerators that can support their future fundraising efforts.

For startups interested in applying, the program provides ongoing support beyond the seven-week period, including networking opportunities through gener8tor’s alumni network and corporate innovation partnerships. The program serves as a gateway for early-stage companies to accelerate their growth, build strong investor relationships, and gain the resources needed to scale their business.