Target Incubator is a four-month program geared toward early stage startups with a vision for making life better — for people, and for the planet. This accelerator provides the next generation of entrepreneurs with the mentorship and support they need to flourish. With a proven platform that encourages evaluation and iteration, Target Incubator puts the spotlight on change-makers and world-shakers as they work toward their goal of positively impacting the world.
We’re looking for future-shapers of all kinds, but there are a few important elements we want to see from all program applicants:
Proof of traction and business incorporation (e.g., an established LLC).
A mission that aligns with “better for people and the planet.”
Majority ownership, and a participating founder who is 18 years or older.
Startups apply online, and finalists are invited to Minneapolis for an interview in early February.* Selections are based on mission, team, capabilities and potential for impact.
The program is divided into two parts. In the first part, you'll work virtually to establish goals, build skills and meet other cohort members. In the second part, you'll join us at Target HQ to meet with executives, work with mentors and collaborate with fellow entrepreneurs.
Upon program completion, graduates participate in a final capstone event. This is your big chance to showcase your progress and preview where you're headed next.
But the program doesn’t end after the capstone event! As a member of Accelerators Alumni, you gain access to continued support, exclusive events and more.
*All related travel and accommodation expenses covered by Target.
There are no open applications for Target Incubator at the moment. Check back soon, or contact us.
Last year, eight outstanding startups were invited to join Target Incubator 2019. They participated in a variety of classes, conferences, workshops, networking events and more to help them hone their skills and refine their pitch. With so many resources at their disposal, each founder worked hard to rapidly evolve their business and move toward the next step in their entrepreneurial journey.
What really differentiated this program in particular was the access to subject matter experts and the vast expertise that we were able to connect with.
Generally speaking, an incubator is a collaborative program designed to nurture early-stage businesses. With the help of dedicated mentors and industry experts, an incubator lets startup founders iterate, test and revise their ideas in a supportive environment.
We’ve intentionally kept the definition broad, but ultimately we’re looking for businesses on a mission. If your business is driven to improve some aspect of our world, we want to hear about it.
No. Target Incubator is focused on helping accelerate incorporated, early-stage businesses with some kind of market traction (see “Criteria” section). If your idea doesn’t have a prototype or revenue, it’s probably not ready for Incubator yet. But once you’ve got it up and running, let’s talk!
No! Target Incubator is an equity-free program, so we won’t take any ownership of your company in exchange for participation. Your idea is yours to keep; we’re here to help you along the journey toward success.
Not necessarily. By applying and/or participating in any of Target’s Accelerator programs, it’s not guaranteed that Target will carry your product, service or technology. Viability for Target stores will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Each company may have up to two participating representatives. At least one participant must be a founder or co-founder.
Our expectation is that founders of all participating companies will be present in Minneapolis for the full duration of the in-person events. But that doesn’t mean you need to move your whole business to Minnesota. We’ve intentionally designed Incubator to include both virtual and in-personal programming, giving you the flexibility to continue running your business.
Any company is eligible to apply, so long as [1] they are an established legal entity (LLC, B Corp, etc.), and [2] they have proof of initial traction (e.g., prototype, revenue or customer traction).
Founders must also be at least 18 years of age to apply. We recognize that there are many amazing young entrepreneurs out there, but we’re limiting the program to participants 18 and older at this time.
It’s the final culmination of all your hard work and rapid progress. Each capstone is a little different, but in general, you can expect to give a rehearsed pitch to Target representatives, fellow entrepreneurs and members of the larger community.
Yes! All Target Accelerator programs are open to startups across the globe.
