StartUp42

StartUp42 operates as a non-profit accelerator established by EPITA, focusing on transforming talented hacker teams into successful startup founders. The program runs biannually, selecting seven promising startups for an intensive four-month acceleration period. Selection criteria emphasize team skills, cohesion, entrepreneurial mindset, market understanding, product-market fit, and innovative concepts. A key requirement for application is having at least one technical founder capable of developing the initial product version, highlighting the accelerator's commitment to supporting technically-driven ventures.

During the four-month acceleration period, participants receive comprehensive support to evolve their concepts into viable products, test market hypotheses, and introduce their innovations to potential stakeholders. The program delivers value through mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, specialized industry workshops, investor networking opportunities, and collaborative workspace access within the EPITA campus. Additionally, startups benefit from approximately €800,000 in perks provided by StartUp42's partner network, creating a robust foundation for early-stage growth and development.

The acceleration culminates in the SU42 Demo Day, where participating startups showcase functional demonstrations of their products to the broader startup ecosystem. This pivotal event provides visibility and connection opportunities with potential investors, partners, and customers. StartUp42 specifically targets ventures with technological advantages that face greater challenges on the business development side rather than technical execution. The accelerator's mission centers on preventing promising technological innovations from failing due to insufficient business support and guidance, addressing a critical gap in the startup ecosystem.

What distinguishes StartUp42 is its uniquely fair and accessible model that removes traditional barriers to entry. The entire four-month program is offered without upfront fees or equity requirements, operating instead on a pay-it-forward philosophy. Alumni are encouraged to make voluntary donations when they achieve success, with the contribution amount entirely at their discretion. This approach reflects StartUp42's commitment to democratizing access to startup resources and fostering a sustainable entrepreneurial community where successful founders reinvest in the next generation of innovators.