Portland State University joins a coalition of Oregon’s top innovation and academic institutions in the launch of Oregon AI Accelerator, a first-of-its-kind statewide initiative designed to support early-stage founders building transformative, AI-first companies.
Backed by seed funding from Google, and supported by the Metro Regional Innovation Hub, PSU, Oregon Health & Science University, Oregon State University, the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network, the Technology Association of Oregon and TiE Oregon, the Accelerator will launch its inaugural pilot in February 2026.
The program will bring together 20 early-stage AI startups for a three-month hybrid accelerator experience combining in-person sessions in Portland with virtual programming. Participants will receive mentorship, validation support and access to Oregon’s thriving innovation ecosystem — without giving up equity — and will compete for up to $50,000 in equity-free grant prizes. The pilot program is being administered at PSU through the Metro Regional Innovation Hub.
“The Hub hosting the pilot program reflects PSU's role in the regional ecosystem as both a convener and a provider that fills gaps,” said Joseph Janda, Assistant Vice President for Innovation at PSU. “Small businesses drive economic prosperity, but scalable new start-ups are the long-term future. It is part of our mission to support not only start-up companies, but the entities that support entrepreneurs. By running this accelerator, we are leading the way on the region's AI transition.”
The Oregon AI Accelerator builds on the success of the Oregon AI Bootcamp, which trained more than 40 founders in June and demonstrated strong regional demand for deeper, hands-on support. The new Accelerator expands on that model with a comprehensive program designed to help founders refine their business models, strengthen technical capabilities and prepare for investment.
“The Oregon AI Accelerator is a model for how public, private, and academic partners can come together to make Oregon a true leader in responsible, human-centered AI innovation,” added Jack Phan, the incoming Director of the Oregon AI Accelerator Program.
Applications for the Oregon AI Accelerator close December 15, 2025. The pilot cohort will run from February 2 through May 15, 2026. While startups from anywhere may apply, at least 50% of the cohort will be Oregon-based to ensure strong local impact and growth.
“This initiative represents the collaborative spirit that defines Oregon’s innovation community,” Janda said. “By bringing together academia, industry, and investors, we’re creating a powerful platform for founders to build scalable companies that reflect Oregon’s values of innovation, equity and impact.”