Sber500 Opens Applications for New Startup Accelerator
Sber500, the global startup seed accelerator, welcomed applications for new technology startups across various countries. To get into the program, the startups need to demonstrate a full team, ready-to-sell products, and first sales. The program will focus on AI agents, AI assistants, and science-based solutions (DeepTech) and BRICS country teams.
"125 startups, alumni of earlier Sber500 seasons, have secured over RUB 3.7 bn in investments and concluded close to 9,500 commercial contracts", said Alexander Vedyakhin, first deputy chairman of the Executive Board, Sberbank. "The Sber500 seed accelerator opens technology firms up to global experts, Sber's partners, and investors", he continued.
Vedyakhin reported that last year, one in four applications were from foreign startups from 28 nations. "This year, we will work with AI agents and DeepTech solutions, and we would like to involve even more foreign participants, particularly from the BRICS countries", he said. The company added that the accelerator programme will run for approximately three months.
The participants will have the opportunity to collaborate with senior mentors and experts from 17 countries in groups and one-on-one. Approximately 150 startups will take part in the online bootcamp (the first accelerator stage). Experts will assist them in adjusting their strategy, getting ready for scaling, consolidating their market position, and securing partners for piloting.
Twenty-five winners will be going on for further training. They will be exposed to 40 leading Russian companies, different Sber departments, hundreds of business angels, and venture funds.
The finals, demo day in Moscow, will involve the startups presenting their solutions to large company executives and potential investors. Applications close May 12, 2025, the company added.
