The change will never be as slow as it is today.  The accounting and finance profession of the future will look very different than it does today. We’re already having to adapt to changes related to regulatory compliance, task automation, AI, blockchain, and more. The Association and CPA Startup Accelerator program help startups to grow throughout the accounting ecosystem so they can help transform the profession. The program aims to strengthen the ability of individual accountants and finance teams to be the go-to analysts, strategists, and consultants that are indispensable to organizations across the globe.

Benefits of the AICPA Startup Accelerator Program

Funding

Selected startups will receive $25,000 each, subject to the agreement of commercial terms, to work with the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants and CPA.com as part of this year’s accelerator cohort. Commercial terms are previewed in the sample convertible promissory note and memorandum of understanding.

Access

Likewise, startups will receive access to the profession including to members, firms, press, and other customers that can help their businesses grow.

Knowledge

We will provide unmatched subject-matter expertise, coaching, mentorship, and knowledge about the profession to help each selected startup refine its value proposition, scale and grow.

Eligibility for the Association & CPA Startup Accelerator Program

Association & CPA Startup Accelerator Program focuses on two specific themes, both of which ultimately help the profession perform and add value at a higher level:

AccounTech
Tools and platforms that improve efficiencies for accounting and finance professionals. Also, advanced technologies that enable firms to shift their focus to value-added advisory services.

RegTech
Technologies that facilitate the delivery of regulatory requirements and help businesses meet the challenges of regulatory monitoring, reporting, compliance, risk management, and fraud detection.

Further, the startups must be:

• A Seed or pre-Series A, with some exceptions
• Likewise, have a functioning product or service
• Also, have a value proposition for the accounting profession

How to apply for the Association & CPA Startup Accelerator Program?

In order to apply for the Startup Accelerator Program, candidates must, at first, meet the eligibility criteria. Only then, can they apply by completing and submitting the online application.

Deadline

The applicants can send their application for the Startup Accelerator Program until 30 November 2019. Applications arriving after the deadline are ineligible to participate in the program.