2026 Startup Accelerator Deadlines: YC, Techstars, Sequoia & More

Timing is everything when applying to startup accelerators. Missing a deadline can mean waiting another six to twelve months for your next shot. This guide consolidates all major 2026 accelerator deadlines in one place—verified and updated for the current cycle.

Q1

• SPC (Spring): February 1 deadline

• YC Spring (S26): February 9 official deadline

• Sequoia Arc (Spring): February 23 deadline

• Neo: Mid-March deadline (miss it and you wait a full year)

Q2

• Techstars (Fall Batches): Early June deadline (covers programs across multiple global cities)

• Afore FIR (Summer): Summer applications typically open in May

Q3

• SPC (Fall): August 3 deadline

• Sequoia Arc (Fall): Mid-August deadline

• YC Winter (W26): Prep starts in June, deadline in early November

Q4

• YC Winter (W26): November 10 official deadline

• Techstars (Spring 26): November 19 (e.g., London, USC programs)

• 500 Global: Mid-October deadline

• HF0: December 31 deadline

Rolling Applications (Apply Anytime)

• AI2 Incubator (AI-focused, very fast feedback)

• PearX (rolling—apply early, interview early)

• Soma Fellows / Greylock Edge

Key Notes

1. Techstars: With 50+ city programs, deadlines vary widely. Once you've picked a city, start tracking at least six months ahead.

2. Early-bird advantage: Programs like PearX, Afore, and Soma may list deadlines, but most review on a rolling basis. Applying early means more interview slots.

Wishing everyone a successful 2026—may you all land that check!