CREATE Accelerator Program
The CREATE Accelerator powered by the Shaddock Seed Fund is a cross-campus accelerator that helps TCU student-led ventures through coaching, mentorship, funding and hands-on entrepreneurial experience.
About the Program
Offered by the Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and powered by the Shaddock Seed Fund, the CREATE Accelerator supports student entrepreneurs from all TCU schools and colleges.
Students with ventures at any stage of business — from newly launched startups to revenue-generating companies — are encouraged to apply.
Participants join a cohort of up to 10 businesses each spring and receive coaching, mentorship, workshops, legal and financial guidance, and access to a network of peers, alumni and industry professionals.
Program Experience
CREATE provides a structured, eight-week experience each spring that helps students strengthen their ventures through workshops, mentorship and applied entrepreneurial learning. The program culminates in a final pitch for seed funding.
- Learn core entrepreneurial skills
- Work with experienced mentors
- Refine your business model
- Pitch for up to $50,000 in funding from the Shaddock Seed Fund
Throughout the program, participants build connections with fellow entrepreneurs, alumni, faculty and industry professionals through networking events and mentorship.
"The CREATE program gave my business partner and me the opportunity to grow our venture with the support of experienced mentors and valuable resources. The connections I made through the program will continue to shape my career beyond graduation."
— Leyton Garrison, CREATE participant
Apply to CREATE
Applications open each fall for students interested in joining the CREATE cohort and pitching for funding.
Info Sessions
Join us for an information session to learn more about the CREATE Accelerator.
Monday, October 5, 2026
12–1 p.m.
Smith Hall, NEEL 3503
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
4–5 p.m.
Smith Hall, NEEL 3503