Applications are now open for the third annual installment of the Comcast NBCUniversal LIFT Labs Accelerator program.

Comcast NBCUniversal and Techstars are seeking startup companies in an effort to develop the next generation of connectivity, media, and entertainment technologies from around the world. 

“The Comcast NBCUniversal LIFT Labs Accelerator is a unique program that offers entrepreneurs an exclusive opportunity to collaborate with mentors from across Comcast, NBCUniversal, and Sky through a variety of workshops, training sessions, and personalized business development plans,” Sam Schwartz, Chief Business Development Officer at Comcast, said in a press release. 

The accelerator is focused on startups utilizing innovative technologies, such as: accessibility tech; enhanced broadband connectivity; artificial intelligence; machine learning; blockchain; voice control; virtual, augmented and mixed reality, and more.

Specific focus areas for 2020 installment of the program include:

• Advanced Connectivity by managing and securing digital devices and smart places with broadband speed, coverage, and control.
• The Future of Work by making it easy for people and businesses to do their best work by connecting and cultivating talent and improving efficiency, collaboration, and communication.
• Interactive & Immersive Experiences by connecting people everywhere with enhanced entertainment, gaming and digital experiences.
• Personalized Experiences by creating unique experiences for customers with all abilities.

“We choose our focus areas based on input from dozens of business leaders across Comcast NBCUniversal and Sky based on their business priorities. Many of these same executives will serve as mentors throughout the program,” Danielle Cohn, Head of LIFT Labs at Comcast, told AL DÍA via email. “We will also be hosting events in LIFT Labs Philadelphia and in cities across the globe in the next few months to highlight these focus areas and meet high potential startups that may be a fit.”

Comcast NBCUniversal and Techstars will select up to 12 startups to participate in the program. The startups will work directly with mentors and product experts from across Comcast NBCUniversal’s businesses, as well as mentors from the expansive Techstars network. 

Since its launch in 2018, 21 companies from around the world have completed the program, with 15 of them securing pilots or proofs of concept with Comcast NBCUniversal brands. More than half were run by women or people of color. 

Applications will be accepted until April 5, 2020. The program begins July 13, 2020 at the Comcast Technology Center in Philadelphia. To apply, click here.