About Berkeley SkyDeck
Berkeley SkyDeck, one of the most prominent global accelerators, is preparing to launch its 20th cohort in May 2025. Known for its strong ties to the UC Berkeley ecosystem and Silicon Valley’s thriving startup environment, SkyDeck offers early-stage startups a unique opportunity to scale their businesses while gaining access to world-class resources and networks.
Unlike many accelerators, SkyDeck focuses heavily on supporting non-U.S. founders aiming to relocate their startups to Silicon Valley. The program emphasizes building globally competitive businesses, with the ultimate goal of preparing startups to secure investment from top-tier venture capital firms.
The accelerator welcomes founders from all industries and has a history of supporting companies in biotech, robotics, fintech, AI, and blockchain. Approximately 75% of successful applicants have already raised funding, typically between $100,000 and $1.5 million, with many generating revenue or demonstrating strong customer traction.
Program highlights
SkyDeck offers a six-month acceleration process for startups aiming to raise Seed or Series A funding. Here are the standout aspects of the program:
- $200,000 investment: Each startup in the main cohort receives funding from the Berkeley SkyDeck Fund.
- Extensive mentorship: With over 800 advisors and mentors, startups gain expert guidance on scaling their operations, refining products, and reaching customers.
- Relocation support: Startups relocating to Silicon Valley receive help with practical issues like immigration, housing, and business infrastructure.
- Venture capital access: SkyDeck has close relationships with leading VC firms, including Sequoia and Sierra Ventures, and hosts a Demo Day attended by over 850 investors.
Cohort profiles
Startups in the SkyDeck program share common characteristics:
- 75% have raised prior funding.
- Many focus on technology-driven solutions in deep tech industries.
- Most plan to raise $2-5 million from U.S. investors within a year of joining.
SkyDeck has played a key role in the success of numerous startups, including Hayden AI, which raised $120 million for its AI-powered traffic solutions; DeepScribe, securing $50 million for its AI-driven medical scribe technology; and Krisp, an Armenian startup that raised $8 million through connections made during the program.
Timeline for Batch 20
- Applications Open January 2025 – February 14, 2025
- Interviews March 3, 2025 – March 28, 2025
- Orientation Monday, May 5, 2025
- Start & End Dates May 5, 2025 – October 3, 2025
- Cohort Demo Day September, 2025
For more information and application details, visit: https://skydeck.berkeley.edu/apply/
