CAJ#5_The German Silicon Valley Accelerator

The German Silicon Valley Accelerator (GSVA) supports German tech startups to accelerate their growth and to become global category leaders. Selected startups participate in a three to six months training program in the heart of Silicon Valley. The goal is to support the young entrepreneurs in their first steps to becoming internationally recognized and successful companies. 

Through this program young people with great ideas have the opportunity work in the dynamic and competitive international environment and to dive into the spirit that makes the Silicon Valley the world’s premier center for innovation and startup success. As part of the program, founders develop a U.S. go-to-market strategy, make initial customer contacts, and continue to engage and build relevant networks. The founders also gain an understanding of possible financing options for their venture and potentially receive introductions to business angels and venture capital investors.

This sounds already really great, ha? Here are some more benefits you can gain from participating in the GSVA program:

Silicon Valley Culture: Understand the U.S. startup and business culture and leverage the resources and support infrastructure unique only to Silicon Valley.
Go-to-Market: by developing a go-to-market strategy and business plan for the U.S. you can understand the importance of corporate partners as a channel for market validation. With this program you learn how to successfully approach possible partners and how to close a deal.
Mentoring: This is the key word of this program. Being mentored by experienced entrepreneurs and investors means that your thinking is challenged, hurdles are discussed and new opportunities arise.

Presentation: You can adapt your communication and presentation style to Silicon Valley expectations. By having the right presentation skills you can convince customers, investors and potential team members more easily.
Experience: Even if the worst case scenario becomes reality and your company does not fit in the Silicon Valley’s expectation at all, you still had the experience of living and working there. You could use this experience for your next idea or to improve your first idea.

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