Headstream Accelerator Program

The Headstream Accelerator, a program under Headstream Innovation, is a digital accelerator initiative designed to uplift early-stage entrepreneurs focused on youth mental well-being. Through its four-month, virtual-first accelerator model, the program empowers a diverse range of innovators to scale tech-enabled solutions that specifically target mental health challenges among adolescents in the United States, especially those from historically excluded communities. The initiative emphasizes cultural relevance, inclusivity, and sustainability, making it a key support mechanism for organizations at the intersection of mental health, education, and technology. Cohort VI of the Headstream Accelerator invites applicants with functional prototypes or solutions preparing for launch or early scaling. The program does not support idea-stage projects. Instead, it prioritizes those already demonstrating feasibility and potential for growth. Eligible applicants include startups, nonprofits, research institutions, and social enterprises, provided they operate within a U.S. market context. International applicants are considered only if they have an established U.S. presence. Preference is given to solutions designed for youth aged 13–19, although pre-teen and college-age solutions also qualify. Participants accepted into the accelerator receive a non-dilutive stipend of $30,000 at the end of the program. Beyond financial support, the program offers deep engagement with youth advisors from the Headstream Youth Co-Creator Club, ensuring products developed are age-appropriate, inclusive, and resonant with the intended user base. Additional benefits include access to expert advisory networks, peer founders, potential funders, and coaching services provided by FounderWell. Cohort members are expected to commit 2–5 hours per week over the 16-week period, engage in virtual and in-person activities, and maintain a development process that embeds youth voices consistently. The selection process is rigorous and designed to identify organizations that can clearly demonstrate their impact on youth mental well-being. Criteria include alignment with education and healthcare contexts, technology integration, cultural sensitivity, a sustainable funding model, and U.S. youth as the primary beneficiary group. The program strongly values inclusivity in both organizational structure and intended user base. Applications for Cohort VI open on January 15, 2026, and close March 15, 2026. Applicants may edit their submissions until the deadline. Interviews will be held between May 22 and June 4, 2026, with final cohort selections announced the week of June 15. The virtual program will commence the week of July 6, 2026, followed by a mandatory in-person kickoff event from July 28 to 30, and the program will conclude during the week of November 2, 2026. For those seeking additional guidance, Headstream hosts optional virtual info sessions in January, February, and March. Interested individuals may also contact accelerator@headstreaminnovation.com with any further inquiries. The program represents a strategic opportunity for mission-driven founders to scale their impact while ensuring solutions are co-developed with youth and experts in mental well-being.

Design for youth voice and cultural relevance; prioritize mental health impact; sustainable models favored.