The Hatchery Accelerator, Powered by RightShift

Build what’s next. Scale with purpose.

The Hatchery Accelerator, powered by RightShift, is a 10-week summer accelerator designed to help founders turn traction into momentum. By combining The Hatchery’s business-focused curriculum with RightShift’s AI-powered tools, technical infrastructure, and engineering support, the program helps founders build stronger products, validate their business models, and prepare for growth.

For the first time, the accelerator is open to founders nationwide, including Emory-affiliated and non-Emory–affiliated teams.

Apply Now

Applications close: March 6, 2026

Questions? Join our AMA on Feb 24, 2025 @ 4:00 p.m.

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Who It’s For

This program is built for founders who are already building and ready to scale. Ideal applicants:

  • Have a functional prototype or MVP
  • Have earned revenue or raised capital
  • Are actively testing assumptions with real customers
  • Are iterating based on user feedback
  • Are committed to building their venture over the next 3–5 years

Both for-profit and nonprofit ventures are welcome.

What You’ll Get

Founders accepted into the program receive:

  • A validated business model grounded in customer discovery
  • A working prototype or MVP, supported by AI-powered product tools
  • A clear go-to-market strategy and growth roadmap
  • Personalized coaching and mentorship from experienced operators
  • Support across brand, strategy, and financial modeling
  • A pitch-ready company, showcased at a culminating pitch event
  • 12 weeks of post-program support, including platform access, advisory sessions, investor introductions, and alumni network integration

How the Program Works

  • Dates: May 27 – July 30, 2026
  • Format: Hybrid (Note: Students are required to attend in-person)
    • Emory Students are required to be based in Atlanta and work from The Hatchery on Monday's (from 9am to 5pm) and and Wednesday's (from 9am to 1pm) for the duration of this program.
  • Schedule: Monday's & Wednesday's, 12:00 to 1:00 PM EST
  • Location: The Hatchery at Emory University (Atlanta, GA)

Who Can Apply

The Hatchery Accelerator, powered by RightShift, is open to:

  • Emory students, faculty, staff, and alumni
  • Founders with no Emory affiliation
  • U.S.-based and international founders

A cohort of 10–12 ventures will be selected.

Key Dates

  • Applications open: January 30, 2026
  • Applications close: March 6, 2026
  • Cohort announced: April 10, 2026

Apply Now

Applications close: March 6, 2026