Baltimore, January 17, 2026
Loyola University Maryland has selected 11 innovative ventures for its Baltipreneurs Accelerator program. This initiative supports startups and social ventures with training, mentorship, and funding, aiming to nurture Baltimore’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Representing diverse industries, including food, AI, and consulting, the cohort emphasizes inclusivity, with 94% identifying as underrepresented founders. The program, which has raised $10.4 million in capital since 2019, culminates in a Demo Day showcasing new solutions for the community.
Loyola University Maryland Welcomes New Cohort to Baltipreneurs Accelerator
11 Innovative Ventures Set to Boost Baltimore’s Entrepreneurial Landscape
Baltimore, Maryland – The Simon Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Loyola University Maryland is pleased to announce the selection of 11 new ventures for its esteemed Baltipreneurs Accelerator program for 2025-26. This initiative provides startup businesses and social ventures with invaluable resources such as training, technical assistance, mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to capital, reinforcing the importance of entrepreneurial innovation in driving local economic growth.
As Baltimore City navigates its path toward a more prosperous future, the resilience of local entrepreneurs shines through. By reducing regulatory burdens and creating an environment that nurtures creativity and innovation, Baltimore can further accelerate its economic development. This year’s cohort is no exception, representing a collection of diverse industries, including food and beverage, artificial intelligence applications in elder care and biotech data, and innovative consulting models focused on supporting youth and families.
A Diverse and Talented Cohort
The new cohort of the Baltipreneurs Accelerator is composed of Loyola students, faculty, staff, and entrepreneurs from other universities as well as the Baltimore community. This multifaceted group reflects the program’s commitment to fostering an equitable and vibrant local economy by supporting entrepreneurs from underrepresented backgrounds. Notably, 94% of participants identify as underrepresented founders, demonstrating the initiative’s focus on inclusivity and opportunity.
Program Impact and Success
Since its inception in 2019, the Baltipreneurs Accelerator has made significant strides in supporting local entrepreneurs. The program has successfully raised $10.4 million in capital for its participants and projected an impressive 2.5x revenue growth for 2023. This success underscores the potential that exists within Baltimore’s business landscape when talented individuals are provided with the right tools and support.
Event Highlights: Demo Day
The Baltipreneurs Accelerator program commenced in December 2025 and will conclude with a Demo Day scheduled for March 19, 2026. At this key event, participants will showcase their ventures, offering community members and potential investors an exclusive look at innovative solutions emerging from Baltimore. Such events are vital in promoting the entrepreneurial spirit and garnering local support.
Support and Funding
The success of the Baltipreneurs Accelerator program is grounded in the generous support of a wide range of sponsors and donors, including the Emerging Technology Centers (ETC), Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP, and the Ratcliffe Foundation, among others. Their contributions are crucial for providing the resources necessary to cultivate the next generation of Baltimore’s entrepreneurs, on whom the city’s economic future heavily relies.
Conclusion: Strengthening Baltimore’s Business Ecosystem
The Baltipreneurs Accelerator not only provides essential support to emerging businesses but also represents a broader commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs. As the Baltimore community rallies around its evolving business landscape, it becomes increasingly evident that fostering entrepreneurial efforts is key to job creation, economic diversification, and sustainable growth. Interested individuals are encouraged to support local ventures, engage with the community, and remain invested in Baltimore’s vibrant economic future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Baltipreneurs Accelerator program?
The Baltipreneurs Accelerator is a four-month, part-time program offered by Loyola University Maryland’s Simon Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship. It supports startup businesses and social ventures with training, technical assistance, mentorship, networking, and access to capital.
Who can participate in the Baltipreneurs Accelerator?
The program is open to Loyola students, faculty, staff, and entrepreneurs from other universities and the Baltimore community.
What industries do the selected ventures represent?
The selected ventures span various industries, including food and beverage, artificial intelligence applications in elder care and biotech data, innovative consulting models, and services supporting youth and families.
What are the key dates for the Baltipreneurs Accelerator program?
- Program Start: December 2025
- Demo Day: March 19, 2026
Who supports the Baltipreneurs Accelerator program?
The program is supported by sponsors such as Emerging Technology Centers (ETC), Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP, Future Makers, Keppel & Kismet, Wilson Sonsini, and McGuire Woods LLP, as well as donors including Command 31 Consulting, Gordon Feinblatt LLP, One Main Financial, Ratcliffe Foundation, Mary Ann Scully, Eileen O’Rourke, and George Davis.
Where can I find more information about the Baltipreneurs Accelerator?
For more information, visit Loyola University Maryland’s official website.
Key Features of the Baltipreneurs Accelerator Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Program Duration | Four months, part-time |
| Support Provided | Training, technical assistance, mentorship, networking, access to capital |
| Target Participants | Loyola students, faculty, staff, and entrepreneurs from other universities and the Baltimore community |
| Demo Day | March 19, 2026 |
| Sponsors and Donors | Emerging Technology Centers (ETC), Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP, Future Makers, Keppel & Kismet, Wilson Sonsini, McGuire Woods LLP, Command 31 Consulting, Gordon Feinblatt LLP, One Main Financial, Ratcliffe Foundation, Mary Ann Scully, Eileen O’Rourke, George Davis |
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