Techstars and Filecoin launching new accelerator out of Seattle for blockchain startups

Techstars, a global network that supports entrepreneurs, is launching a new accelerator program out of Seattle.

The Filecoin Techstars Accelerator is partnering with Protocol Labs to “build the next generation of the internet.” Filecoin offers a decentralized data storage marketplace, protocol, and cryptocurrency, while Protocol Labs is an open source research and development lab.

The program will attract blockchain startups, specifically companies developing Web2 and Web3 apps in data curation, digital asset management and more.

Ten startups will participate in the hybrid digital and in-person program from March through June 2022. Participants receive funding, educational sessions and mentorship through the Techstars program.

The applications will be open from September until November.

Techstars already has a portfolio of other blockchain startups, including Chainalysis, Arweave, TradingView.

Isaac Kato, who leads the Techstars Seattle accelerator, will also lead the new program. He said he is eager to work with the next generation of Web2 and Web3 apps.

“Protocol Labs’ highly disruptive approach to cloud storage opens up incredible startup opportunities for developers who want to take advantage of Filecoin/IPFS’ decentralization, immutability, and affordability,” Kato said in a press release.