Powering LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs Through Collaboration
StartOut and J.P. Morgan have teamed up to launch a new class of founders in the Growth Lab Accelerator, a five-month program built to open doors for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. The aim is straightforward: expand access to funding, connect founders with mentors, and weave them into networks that help businesses grow. With structure, community, and consistent support, the program helps bold ideas move off the page and into the market.
A Brief History of the Growth Lab Accelerator
Launched in 2017, the Growth Lab Accelerator has become a steady force for LGBTQ+ founders. To date, it has served 93 companies, supported the creation of more than 4,200 jobs, and seen $892 million in funding raised by participating startups. J.P. Morgan’s role includes opening its global network to founders, giving them access to expertise and relationships that help sustain growth long after the program ends.
Meet the New Cohort
Cohort 14 brings together startups that pair creativity with clear purpose. These teams were selected not only for strong ideas, but also for their potential to solve real problems in their communities and industries. David Barbee, Managing Director at J.P. Morgan Commercial Banking, put it simply: “The entrepreneurs of Cohort 14 are driving innovation across a variety of industries.” The group spans health, music, construction, commerce, travel, and more—each with a focused plan to move their sector forward.
Startups Featured in Cohort 14
Here are the companies shaping this cohort’s momentum:
- ADEii Health: Expands access to behavioral health and mental wellness services in schools and community organizations, supporting students, families, and staff where they learn and gather.
- Delve Deep Learning: Builds AI tools that strengthen intelligence and insights in public affairs, helping decision-makers understand what matters and why.
- Gritty in Pink: A digital platform elevating female talent in the music industry, creating space for discovery, connection, and paid opportunities.
- Paldara Pharmaceuticals: Develops novel drug delivery approaches aimed at treating antibiotic-resistant infections, with methods designed to increase precision and impact.
- Shimmer: Provides life coaching and wellness support tailored to people with ADHD, focusing on practical strategies and day-to-day accountability.
- The Builder Market: Connects more than two million construction professionals through a new social platform that makes it easier to find partners, share work, and build reputations.
- The Rave: Offers digital tools that reward e-commerce purchases with cash, giving shoppers a simple way to save while supporting online merchants.
- Tripiamo: Improves international travel by pairing visitors with verified local guides, so travelers can navigate confidently and get more from each trip.
- Voda: Expands mental health resources designed for the LGBTQ+ community, centering care that reflects people’s lived experiences.
Celebrating Innovation and Growth
“Each company in this cohort is united by a shared commitment to promoting equity, enhancing wellness, and fostering innovation,” said Brian Richardson, CEO of StartOut. Now in its fifth year, the partnership with J.P. Morgan continues to create momentum—supporting founders as they refine their strategies, test their markets, and build the relationships that help a business last.
About StartOut and J.P. Morgan
Founded in 2009, StartOut is the largest nonprofit dedicated to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, with a community of more than 28,000 members nationwide. The organization focuses on economic empowerment—helping new founders get started and helping current business owners access the resources they need to grow.
J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM) is a global financial services firm with $4.1 trillion in assets. Its businesses span investment banking and commercial banking, among other services. Through initiatives like the Growth Lab Accelerator, J.P. Morgan continues to back efforts that advance inclusion and support the LGBTQ+ community in entrepreneurship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Growth Lab Accelerator?
It’s a five-month program from StartOut and J.P. Morgan that supports LGBTQ+ founders with access to funding, mentorship, and networking—tools that help turn strong ideas into growing companies.
How much impact has the Growth Lab had since 2017?
Since launch, 93 companies have participated. Collectively, these startups have helped create more than 4,200 jobs and have raised $892 million in funding.
Who’s in Cohort 14?
The cohort features companies such as ADEii Health, Delve Deep Learning, Gritty in Pink, Paldara Pharmaceuticals, Shimmer, The Builder Market, The Rave, Tripiamo, and Voda.
What does StartOut do for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs?
StartOut builds community and access. It supports LGBTQ+ founders through programming and resources aimed at economic empowerment and equal opportunity from startup to scale.
How is J.P. Morgan involved?
J.P. Morgan contributes mentorship, resources, and access to its global network, strengthening the Growth Lab Accelerator and the founders who participate in it.
