The NetApp Excellerator program is the first start-up accelerator program deployed by NetApp in India. NetApp Excellerator allows start-ups to learn from the data management expertise for which NetApp is well known and thus enhance the value proposition of their business ideas.
The NetApp Excellerator program provides a unique opportunity for start-ups to learn from a major global corporation. This program is a platform to partner with an industry leader and learn from its experience with staying ahead of the innovation curve and scaling a business quickly to its full potential.
The learning cohort enters a four-month program in which start-ups are mentored by NetApp technology and business experts, entrepreneurs, investors, and other industry leaders. Start-ups will learn to understand their customer’s needs and how to apply relevant frameworks for their business. Start-ups will also gain access to coworking space, tools, platforms, investors, financial grants, technology support, and business advisory services.
Start-ups from a diverse set of technology areas such as the cloud, the Internet of Things, big data and analytics, machine learning, virtualization, data security, data management, storage, and other related areas can apply. Any start-up that would like to work with the best in the data management industry can apply for the program.
Start-ups can apply by submitting the online application form will be available on this site during the registration period of each cohort. Applicants are evaluated based on the strength of their business idea, products, team, and traction. Each cohort will include five or six start-ups. The application process will be conducted by experts and mentors at NetApp.
No, any start-up can apply to NetApp Excellerator. However, they should be willing to work from the coworking space located at the NetApp campus at Whitefield in Bangalore for a significant part of the cohort tenure. We would like at least the cofounder and some of the team members to be present on premises to promote fruitful interactions with mentors and the rest of the cohort.
No, NetApp will not take any equity in start-ups.
Start-ups have sole ownership of their existing IP as well as any IP that the start-up develops during the program.
NetApp Excellerator provides access to technology and business mentors. Each start-up has assigned technology and business mentors who share their expertise and connections within the organization and the ecosystem. Start-ups have access to various NetApp learning modules, specific training, and industry insights.
Although the time commitment might vary, start-up cofounders and other team members should work from the coworking space for a significant period of the program. Teams should also attend the fortnightly review sessions, technology and business mentoring sessions, expert interactions, and other program activities.
