Comcast has officially opened applications for the Comcast NBCUniversal LIFT Labs Accelerator: Generative AI.

This will be the first of multiple theme-driven accelerator programs hosted by Comcast NBCUniversal LIFT Labs throughout the year focused on emerging trends in connectivity, entertainment, and more.

The LIFT Labs Accelerators are open to startups at various stages in their entrepreneurial journeys — from pre-seed to enterprise-ready stages.

The first program will kick off on Monday, May 22, 2023, in Philadelphia, where over a six-week period, startups will be introduced to leaders from across Comcast NBCUniversal to gain more insight on the applications and opportunities around Generative AI.

Generative AI refers to the ability of artificial intelligence to generate new content, like text, video, audio, and code, when trained appropriately. This developing technology is being widely explored across industries as enterprises and startups alike plan how it could open new possibilities and influence operations, products, services, experiences and more. 

“Comcast has a strong history of partnering with startups at the forefront of innovation and emerging technologies,” said Sam Schwartz, chief business development officer at Comcast, in a press release. “We are excited to kick off our 2023 LIFT Labs Accelerator series to engage with founders focusing on Generative AI applications, services, and technology to learn more about the implications, opportunities, and impact across a wide range of sectors, including connectivity and content.” 

Selected companies will participate in a combination of in-person and remote learning, including one-on-one personalized curriculum tailored to the startup’s stage and mentorship from executives across Comcast NBCUniversal. This model allows founders to fully immerse themselves in their growth opportunities, while developing relations with Comcast NBCUniversal and the LIFT Labs network. 

The program will be led by Comcast NBCUniversal executive directors of start-up engagement Laura Plunkett and Luke Butler.

Following the accelerator, alumni will receive dedicated support from the LIFT Labs team to assist in pilot execution and connections to relevant business units at Comcast NBCUniversal, in addition to other companies that are part of the LIFT Labs network.

This is a continuation of Comcast’s reputation of helping grow startups. 

Since LIFT Labs launched its first accelerator in 2018, more than 80% of its 54 portfolio companies have landed a proof of concept, pilot, or commercial deal with Comcast NBCUniversal. All 11 startups who participated in the 2022 Accelerator did so, while alumni have gone on to raise more than $136 million to date. 

Startups leveraging Generative AI to build next-generation technologies, products, and services can apply through Sunday, April 9, 2023. For more information or to apply, visit www.ComcastNBCULIFT.com.