This program has been in operation for more than 10 years, helping over 140 companies in the Sports and Active Lifestyle space improve their business plans, increase sales and achieve scale.  With 79% of our graduates acquired or active in their business today, we know we have a program that works and we’re excited for you to take the next steps.

This program is a 20-week structured program that runs on a scheduled cohort basis.  The next cohort, Class 26, will begin in August 2025. If you’d like to view the full class schedule, you can do so here.

During the application process you’ll be asked to submit:

• Business Plan Presentation - similar in form and content to the SDSI Business Plan Template - click the button below to download

• Executive Summary - not to exceed two pages. More information on Executive Summaries can be found here.

• Video - short (1-2 minute), informal video about you, your company, and why you’re applying.

• Application Form - with additional questions about your business. To ensure accuracy, we’ll send you the link to this form at the start of the application window. This is also where you will upload your application materials.

The Application Process

There are 3 phases to the application process. Each serves a different purpose in helping us learn about your company, your needs and how we can help.

• Phase 1: Pre-screening - Short form on our website, this portion of the application is open year round

• Phase 2: Applying - Submitting the 4 materials listed above (application form, business plan presentation, executive summary, and video), this portion of the process spans a 3 week window at the start of each new cohort. To view the dates of the next application window, check the class schedule here.

• Phase 3: Presenting - After reviewing all applications the strongest candidates will be selected to present to our group of mentors at the Intake Panel (held via Zoom). It is at this panel that final acceptance to the program is determined.

Once you’re accepted, you’ll meet your mentor team and begin working together on a weekly basis. At your first mentor team meeting, you’ll discuss what you want to get out of the Accelerator program and devise a plan for the 20 weeks to come.

Please note that there is no cost to apply to the SDSI Accelerator program but if accepted (which is officially determined after the Intake Panel) there is a program fee of $3,500. This gets you personalized access to some of the best minds in SAL as well as continued support through a year-long membership to SDSI. Once the 20 weeks of the program concludes, you still have a year from the day you joined to take advantage of the power of the SDSI network. .  If you’d like to learn more about SDSI membership, you can do so here.

Should you have any issues downloading the template or have questions on the process please contact dana@sdsportinnovators.com