The City of Bellevue's Startup 425 initiative recently celebrated the graduation of its inaugural accelerator cohort, which aims to enhance entrepreneurship within Eastside communities. This free 15-week program, funded by the Port of Seattle and Amazon, provides essential support to aspiring entrepreneurs, equipping them with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of starting a business. Participants expressed their appreciation for the program's ability to deliver valuable insights without requiring entry fees or equity stakes, thereby lowering barriers to entry. Graduates showcased their new businesses during a Demo Day at Bellevue City Hall, highlighting the program's real-world impact. Aspen White, founder of Aerware AI, noted the clarity and actionable strategies gained through the accelerator, emphasizing its value for entrepreneurs.

Applications for the second cohort, beginning on February 24, are open until February 21, encouraging individuals from various sectors to apply. The success of the first cohort has prompted Startup 425 to plan four additional cohorts through 2026, reinforcing its commitment to fostering local business growth. More information and application details can be found at Startup425. org/accelerator.