Traction Lab Venture Accelerator Launches to Support Sacramento Startups

The Carlsen Center and The Right Box have partnered to launch the Traction Lab Venture Accelerator (TLVA), a new program aimed at helping pre-seed and seed-stage startups achieve market traction and prepare for their next round of funding. TLVA targets tech-enabled startups in large, growing markets, offering resources to expedite product-market fit and accelerate growth.

A Structured Approach to Startup Growth

The TLVA program employs a stage-gated process to guide founders through market hypothesis testing, scaling strategies, and investment readiness. Participants progress through distinct phases, meeting milestones that validate business assumptions and achieve measurable traction.

The program’s goal is to prepare startups for priced funding rounds, such as Series Seed or Series A, within 6–12 months. TLVA also aims to position companies for successful exits in 3–5 years.

What the Program Offers

TLVA is designed to meet the specific needs of pre-seed and seed-stage startups. Key features include:

  • Mentorship: Founders receive personalized guidance from industry experts to navigate challenges and achieve growth milestones.
  • Strategic Workshops: Sessions focus on growth hacking, rapid prototyping, and partnership development.
  • Investment Readiness: Startups develop clear strategies to attract investors.
  • Non-Dilutive Funding: Experiment dollars are available to help drive growth without giving up equity.
  • Operational Support: Resources include assistance with marketing, legal, HR, finance, and product development.
  • Community and Networking: Participants gain access to a global network of designers, developers, marketers, and fellow founders, as well as connections to over 100 investors.

Startups are admitted in “forums” of 3–5 companies, with applications accepted on a rolling basis. Founders can complete the application process in about 30 minutes, including submitting a video and references.

Mentorship Opportunities

TLVA invites mentors to contribute by supporting startups with their expertise. Opportunities include:

  • One-on-One Mentoring: Providing tailored guidance to individual startups.
  • Subject Matter Expertise: Hosting workshops or office hours on specialized topics.
  • Group Mentoring: Offering feedback on investor pitches, pitch decks, and deal readiness.

Those interested in becoming a mentor can sign up here.

Collaboration with Partners

TLVA partners with organizations to provide additional resources, sponsorships, and support. Businesses interested in partnering can connect with TLVA here.

Program’s Track Record

The Traction Lab Venture Accelerator is powered by the Carlsen Center and The Right Box, organizations with extensive experience in supporting startups. Together, they have facilitated fundraising rounds, launched programs to drive market traction, and built a network that includes:

  • $50M+ raised by startups in the ecosystem.
  • 100+ investors in the network.
  • 40+ mentors actively engaged with participating startups.

Details and Application

For more information about the Traction Lab Venture Accelerator, visit the program webpage. Startups interested in applying can submit an application here. Mentors and partners can learn more by signing up as a mentor or connecting as a partner.

The Traction Lab Venture Accelerator represents a new resource for the Sacramento startup ecosystem, designed to help local entrepreneurs achieve their growth goals and prepare for future success.

Interested in learning about startup events happening in the Greater Sacramento region? Check our event listings!