Purpose-built for those past the proof-of-concept phase, the Milestone Accelerator offers rigorous support, strategic guidance, and the momentum to scale what’s already working. 

We support Lehigh entrepreneurs who are all-in—alumni founders with growing startups and faculty innovators advancing research-driven ventures. With early traction in hand and a clear path ahead, these founders are ready to raise capital, build partnerships, and enter new markets. 

Grounded in rigor, collaboration, and real-world readiness, the Milestone Accelerator helps tested ventures grow faster, smarter, and stronger. 

Program Details

  • 8–12 months in 120-day goal focused sprints
  • Milestone-driven with regular check-ins, peer sessions, and progress tracking
  • Up to $5,000 in grant funding available for student teams to support MVP development and testing
  • ~5–10 hours/week
  • In-person + virtual hybrid
  • Free
  • Lehigh students & select faculty teams

Success will look different for every venture—but here’s what we aim to help you achieve:

  • Validate traction by securing your first customers, pilots, or early revenue
  • Reach major milestones like product-market fit, scalable operations, or team growth
  • Attract capital through grant wins, investor interest, or signed term sheets
  • Build strategic momentum through partnerships, licensing, or market expansion
  • Gain visibility in investor spotlights, alumni showcases, and Lehigh media
  • Position your venture for acceptance into top-tier accelerators or sustainable growth beyond the program

As a participant, you’ll:

  • Join a 6-month, milestone-based accelerator, structured in 90-day cycles with regular progress reviews
  • Opportunities to apply for up to $10,000 in grant funding to reduce risk, build traction, and move toward your next stage
  • Work closely with mentors and a Director Panel of investors, founders, and domain experts
  • Test and validate your most critical assumptions—from customer fit to pricing, partnerships, or market strategy
  • Access curated connections to Lehigh’s extended network of investors, advisors, and potential partners
  • Work toward tailored growth milestones—such as raising capital, securing customers, or preparing for a national accelerator
  • Ventures that successfully meet their milestones may be invited to re-up for additional 90-day cycles, based on program capacity and continued alignment with LVL’s support model.