Accelerating Concept to Commercialization in Kansas (ACCEL-KS)
About the Program
ACCEL-KS is a statewide initiative of the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Office of Innovation, aimed at supporting and accelerating the commercialization of groundbreaking ideas and products, transforming them into market-ready solutions. By prioritizing Proof-of-Concept (PoC) and Research & Development (R\&D) efforts, ACCEL-KS activates Kansas’ innovation ecosystem to deliver critical financial and wrap-around support systems to fast-tracking high-potential projects toward commercial success. The program is designed to drive commercialization, foster new startup creation, stimulate economic growth, and generate high-quality jobs—aligning with Kansas’ broader vision for a dynamic, resilient, and innovation-driven economy.
Groover Labs – Wichita
ACCEL-KS at Groover Labs is a hands-on, founder-focused program supporting innovators across Kansas with mentoring, grant funding, prototyping, and entrepreneurship education. Located in a 42,000 sq. ft. innovation center in downtown Wichita, Groover Labs is more than a workspace—it’s a nonprofit-powered launchpad for early-stage ideas to become viable, fundable businesses.
Groover Labs serves as a vital node in the Kansas startup ecosystem, with a five-year track record of delivering high-impact programming to software and hardware entrepreneurs. It combines a nationally recognized mentor network, deep prototyping capabilities, and a collaborative community into a supportive pipeline for innovators—from first idea to early investment.
KU Innovation Park – Lawrence
ACCEL-KS at KU Innovation Park delivers structured, cohort-based proof-of-concept (PoC) support for high-potential entrepreneurs across Kansas. Backed by a strong university partnership and a proven commercialization platform, KU Innovation Park helps innovators turn big ideas into investable businesses.
Located in Lawrence, KU Innovation Park is a nonprofit innovation hub that serves as the University of Kansas's commercialization partner. It is home to a growing network of startups, researchers, and high-tech companies. KU Innovation Park blends academic strength, business strategy, and startup know-how to accelerate early-stage innovation across biosciences, engineering, cybersecurity, and more.
Program Details
Who Should Apply?
ACCEL-KS is designed for:
- Early-stage startups and founders
- Innovators with a product idea or prototype
- Researchers seeking commercialization paths
- Entrepreneurs looking for technical assistance or market validation
What Support is Available?
Selected partners offer:
- Proof-of-Concept development
- Prototyping and lab access
- Mentorship and coaching
- Commercialization and business planning support
- Access to funding resources
ACCEL-KS places special emphasis on supporting rural innovators. At least 30% of supported projects must originate in rural Kansas.
Explore Kansas Communities
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