The Walt Disney Company is getting into the startup incubator business with the launch of a new program called the Disney Accelerator. Disney says it’s looking for 10 “early-stage companies with innovative consumer media and entertainment product ideas.” Those startups will receive a $120,000 investment and mentorship from the tech and entertainment industries, as well as from leaders in various Disney divisions.
Beginning this summer at The Walt Disney Company, it’s a small (business) world, after all. In keeping with its commitment to innovative technology and visionary works, the company will sponsor 10 startups for a three-month mentorship program, whereby participants will receive $120,000 in investment capital and mentoring from top Disney execs. The incubation initiative, called Disney Accelerator, will be powered by leading seed-stage investment program Techstars. Applications, due April 16, are available now, with the program slated to begin in June. Disney is seeking tech-powered startups, it said, with products and services in the consumer entertainment and media space — “no scripts, screenplays or ideas for attractions, please.”
