Building a startup is difficult. Raising funding, building the right network, and scaling a company can feel even harder for women founders navigating the tech ecosystem. That is exactly the challenge FourthWave was created to address.

Applications are now open for the 2026 FourthWave Accelerator, a 16-week program designed to help women-led technology companies grow stronger businesses, become more investor ready, and connect with experienced mentors and industry leaders.

The accelerator officially begins on August 5, 2026, and runs through mid-November. Applications are due June 5, 2026.

For women founders looking to scale their company and gain access to experienced support systems, this program offers an opportunity to accelerate growth while joining a community of ambitious entrepreneurs.

A Program Designed for Growth

FourthWave focuses on helping high-potential women-led technology startups strengthen both their business strategy and leadership development.

Participants receive support through:

  • One-on-one business mentorship
  • Leadership development coaching
  • Investor readiness preparation
  • Fundraising support
  • Strategic gap analysis
  • Access to mentors, advisors, investors, and ecosystem partners

The program is built for founders who are serious about scaling and preparing for future growth opportunities.

According to FourthWave Co-Founder Cheryl Beninga, the organization’s mission is centered on creating greater equity in venture funding and expanding opportunities for women entrepreneurs in technology.

That mission continues to resonate in an industry where women-led startups still receive a disproportionately small percentage of venture capital funding despite strong performance and innovation potential.

The 2026 FourthWave Accelerator is primarily virtual, with a three-day in-person kickoff from August 5 to August 7. The kickoff includes dedicated time for founders to connect, learn, and build relationships, including a dinner with mentors and investors.

Built in Sacramento, Supporting Founders Beyond the Region

Founded in Sacramento in 2017, FourthWave has become one of the region’s leading accelerators supporting women-led technology businesses.

The program operates in partnership with organizations including The Carlsen Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship and the City of Sacramento. These partnerships help expand access to mentorship, entrepreneurial education, leadership development, and investor engagement opportunities.

Each cohort typically supports 10 to 15 companies across a variety of industries. Recent cohorts have included startups working in AI, CleanTech, AgeTech, EdTech, Gaming, MedTech, and Tourism.

The diversity of industries represented reflects the growing number of women founders building innovative technology companies both within Sacramento and beyond.

A Track Record of Real Outcomes

FourthWave alumni have collectively raised more than $150 million after completing the program. Companies that have gone through the accelerator have secured venture funding, entered nationally recognized accelerator programs, won awards, formed major partnerships, and expanded operations.

Notable alumni include:

  • Elve, which raised a $15 million Series A round and opened a manufacturing facility in Davis, California
  • Ananya Health, which became a National Cancer Institute grant recipient

These examples demonstrate the type of momentum founders can build when paired with mentorship, strategic guidance, and access to strong networks.

Who Should Apply?

FourthWave is looking for women founders building scalable technology companies who are ready to:

  • Refine their business model
  • Strengthen their leadership skills
  • Expand their investor network
  • Prepare for future fundraising conversations
  • Accelerate company growth

If you are building a technology company and looking for structured support, experienced mentorship, and meaningful connections within the startup ecosystem, this accelerator may be worth exploring. Learn more and apply here.

Wrap Up

The startup journey can often feel isolating, especially for founders navigating the challenges of scaling a technology company while seeking access to funding and strategic support. FourthWave continues to build a pathway for women entrepreneurs to gain the tools, mentorship, and relationships needed to grow sustainable and impactful companies.

With applications now open for the 2026 cohort, founders have an opportunity to join a program with a strong track record of helping women-led startups move forward with confidence, clarity, and momentum.

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