The Challenge
An EdTech accelerator recognized the need to provide ongoing support to its alumni to ensure continued growth and success of startups post-program. They needed to create a structured accelerator alumni program that would remain relevant and valuable to graduates at different stages of their entrepreneurial journey.
The Method
We conducted a comprehensive research process to inform their alumni program design:
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Alumni Interviews: In-depth conversations with acelerator graduates to understand their post-program experiences and needs.
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Needs Assessment: A structured evaluation of alumni requirements at different stages of their entrepreneurial journey.
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Feedback Questionnaire: Collecting specific input from alumni on potential entrepreneurial education journey including business model, MVP and lean methodologies..
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Best Practice Survey: Examining successful alumni programs from other accelerators and industries.
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Academic Research Review: Analyzing scholarly literature on post-acceleration support and entrepreneurial development.Ac
This multi-faceted approach ensured that the resulting accelerator alumni program was grounded in both practical needs and theoretical best practices, leveraging impact assessment and entrepreneurial methodologies.
The Insights
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A phased approach allows for gradual development and refinement of offerings and accelerator services.
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Tailoring support based on startup stage maintains relevance and engagement from early-stage to growth stage startups.
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Involving alumni in the accelerator creates a virtuous cycle of support and mentorship.
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Addressing specific challenges faced by educational entrepreneurs is essential for an education-focused accelerator
The Results
The alumni program showed several positive outcomes:
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Creation of the Build-Launch-Grow methodology for alumni programs.
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Increased engagement through stage-appropriate support.
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hanced networking and knowledge sharing among alumni, fostering a strong innovation ecosystem.
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Continued learning opportunities through mini-courses and conferences, focusing on MVP development and early-stage growth.
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Optimized resource access through databases and marketplaces.
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Strengthened educational innovation ecosystem through alumni integration and beta site opportunities.
This structured, stage-appropriate approach provided ongoing support and fostered continued growth among accelerator graduates in the education sector, ultimately contributing to the development of a thriving EdTech startup community.