Smart Futures Lab

Overview

Smart Futures Lab is an accelerator program based at the University of Colorado Denver, dedicated to supporting tech startups focused on smart city solutions. The program offers a comprehensive 6-month curriculum designed to help entrepreneurs develop and scale their businesses. Participants gain access to resources such as a standalone 5G network for development and testing, a prototyping makerspace, and a collaborative workspace equipped with conference rooms and event spaces. Additionally, the program provides connections to a vast network of government contacts, mentors, and industry professionals, facilitating valuable partnerships and growth opportunities. The accelerator focuses on various sectors, including infrastructure, transportation, energy, public safety, sustainability, accessibility, climate and air quality, and more. It is open to New Majority tech founders, professionals, and students ready to develop and scale smart city solutions globally. The program is committed to fostering inclusivity and equity in the tech and smart cities industry by providing a supportive startup program for women, individuals with disabilities, and Black, Hispanic & Latino, Indigenous American & Pacific Islander founders. In just three years, 29 tech companies have joined the Smart Futures Lab program, gaining valuable connections and support to fuel their growth. The program has facilitated significant milestones, including $15.5 million in investments and sales, the creation of nine new product prototypes, and the registration of six new patents. These achievements underscore the program's impact in advancing innovation and supporting the development of smart city technologies.

Investment Focus

• Tech startups developing smart city solutions
• New Majority founders (women, individuals with disabilities, Black, Hispanic & Latino, Indigenous American & Pacific Islander)
• Companies interested in leveraging 5G technology
• Startups seeking government partnerships and funding opportunities