Fall 2026 cohort

Startup Labs

Startup Labs is our zero-equity accelerator for early-stage startups founded by UCLA students, alumni and faculty. We select a cohort in the fall and another in mid-winter. Throughout the program, founders receive hands-on support, mentorship and access to resources as they build and grow their companies. Each cohort concludes with Demo Day where founders present to investors and the UCLA startup community.

What's in it for you

  1. 01

    Dedicated Support

    Work with a team of BE members who support your startup throughout the program based on what you need most.

  2. 02

    Mentorship and Resources

    Get guidance from experienced founders, operators, and investors through workshops, office hours, and one-on-one conversations.

  3. 03

    UCLA Founder Network

    Build alongside other UCLA founders and connect with students, alumni, and others across the startup community.

  4. 04

    Investor Exposure

    Pitch at Demo Day and get your company in front of investors, founders, and the broader UCLA startup community.

Who it's for

  • At least one founder is a current UCLA student, alum, or faculty member.
  • You are actively building a startup or exploring an idea you want to turn into one.
  • You are looking for support, mentorship, and connections to help take your company further.

Demo Day

Demo Day is held in mid-winter for the fall cohort and in the spring for the winter cohort. Founders present their companies to an audience of investors, UCLA alumni, founders, faculty, and members of the broader startup community.

Apply

Applications follow the same timeline as member recruitment. Visit the Join page for application dates and details for both tracks.

Applications open soon