Sber500 Invites Applications for New International Startup Accelerator Program
Sber500, the international startup seed accelerator, has announced that it is accepting applications from new technology startups based in countries around the world. The program is designed to help early-stage companies develop their businesses and secure funding.
To be considered, startups must possess a dedicated team alongside a completed product and demonstrate initial sales. The accelerator program will place a special emphasis on companies focusing on AI agents, AI assistants, and science-based solutions (DeepTech), as well as teams hailing from the BRICS nations.
“125 startups, graduates of previous Sber500 seasons, have collectively secured over RUB 3.7 billion in investments and signed nearly 9,500 commercial contracts,” stated Alexander Vedyakhin, First Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board, Sberbank. He added, “The Sber500 seed accelerator provides technology companies access to international experts, Sber’s partners, and investors.”
According to Vedyakhin, approximately one-quarter of applications received last year came from international startups representing 28 countries. “This year, our focus will be on AI agents and DeepTech solutions, and we aim to attract even more participants from abroad. We particularly want to encourage greater involvement from the BRICS countries,” Vedyakhin said.
The accelerator program is scheduled for approximately three months. Participants will have the opportunity to collaborate with experienced experts and mentors from 17 countries through both group sessions and individual mentorship. About 150 startups are expected to attend the online bootcamp, which marks the first stage of the accelerator.
Specialists will be available to guide the startups in refining their strategies, preparing for scalability, fortifying their market presence, and identifying partners for pilot projects. Twenty-five finalists will continue their training, gaining access to 40 major Russian companies, various departments at Sber, as well as hundreds of business angels and venture funds.
The program will conclude with a demo day in Moscow where the startups will present their solutions to executives from major corporations and potential investors. The deadline for applications is May 12, 2025.
