A batch of startups is headed to Detroit, selected for a one-of-a-kind opportunity to push their business dreams forward.
Twelve businesses were selected out of 500 applicants from around the world to come here to the Motor City for a special program.
The goals: to build their business, expand their auto industry connections, and develop transportation solutions for the next generation.
Techstars and Ford Motor Company have come together for this effort for a second year in a row. Techstars Mobilityis described as a mentorship-driven accelerator program.
According to a news release, the new class of 2016 will work to introduce new mobility ideas to Detroit during the three month development session that kicks off Monday and runs until early September.
Each company gets $120,000 of funding with extensive guidance and support over those several months.
This new class includes companies with different goals from personalizing self-driving cars to developing a connected notifications platform that warns motorists of passing emergency vehicles.
The program is set to end on September 8 with the startups holding a demo day at the Detroit Opera House.
The graduating Techstars Mobility class of 2015 has raised about $5 million in funding. One of the company's founders, Ford notes, even decided to pack up her business in New York City and move to Detroit.
“Techstars and Ford Motor Company are working to support smart, ambitious entrepreneurs who are developing innovative solutions for mobility issues,” said Ken Washington, Ford vice president, Research and Advanced Engineering, in a news release. “Startups are bringing new energy and creative thinking to the fore, and we are pleased to introduce these new ideas to Detroit and the auto industry.”
Check out the full list of startups below from the Techstars blog:
