SEED Lab Pre-Accelerator

SEED Lab Pre-Accelerator

Program Type: 8-month pre-accelerator for social entrepreneurs

Overview: Caravanserai's signature 8-month pre-accelerator designed to empower a new generation of social entrepreneurs who are reimagining the future of their communities. Through a transformative blend of training, mentorship, and capital access, SEED Lab equips early-stage changemakers with the tools they need to build sustainable, mission-driven ventures that create lasting social impact.

Program Value

• Program Cost: $8,500
• Program Value: Over $15,000 in total support
• Scholarships: Full and partial scholarships available for all admitted fellows. No one should be held back by financial barriers.

Geographic Scope

• Location: California-based entrepreneurs only
• Partnership: Offered in collaboration with University of California Riverside Extension

Who Should Apply

Emerging California-based entrepreneurs and ventures that are:
• In the pilot or proof-of-concept phase of their entrepreneurial journey
• Mission-driven with a clear commitment to community impact and equity
• Innovative, offering fresh solutions to long-standing challenges
• Early traction-focused, already engaging with potential customers or beneficiaries
• Ready to grow personally and professionally in a dynamic and supportive environment
• California-based

Focus Areas: Social or environmental challenges

What Fellows Receive

• 90+ Hours of Cohort-Based Learning: Interactive virtual and in-person workshops designed around unique stage of development
• Personalized One-on-One Mentorship: Direct support from seasoned entrepreneurs, industry experts, and impact leaders
• UC Riverside Extension Certification: 9 professional credits and recognized certificate in social entrepreneurship
• Access to Capital Opportunities: Access to potential funding, including micro-grants, investments, and in-kind resources
• Lifelong Network: Join a vibrant community of innovators, mentors, funders, and ecosystem builders

Target Audience

• Emerging entrepreneurs
• Social entrepreneurs
• Underestimated founders
• Founders from historically marginalized and undercapitalized communities

Program Timeline

• Applications Open: May – August 31
• Cohort Announcement: October
• Program Duration: October – May (8 months)

Contact Information

• Phone: (760) 537-6442
• Email: contact@caravanseraiproject.org
• Location: 2150 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, #3, Palm Springs, CA 92262
• Mailing Address: P.O. Box 2486, Palm Springs, CA 92263