In this episode of Founders’ Backpack, we break down the Comcast SportsTech Accelerator — one of the most competitive and partner-driven programs in sports innovation. With only 10 startups selected out of 1,500+ applicants, this accelerator gives founders the chance to secure real pilots with brands like NBC Sports, NASCAR, the PGA TOUR, and more. We’ll walk through what it takes to get in, what the selection team is really looking for, and how founders can position themselves for success.

Whether you’re building fan engagement tools, athlete performance tech, or venue innovations, this program offers way more than just capital — it's a shot at long-term enterprise deals. Sophia and Daniel dive into the program structure, funding terms, and key strategies to help you stand out in the application process. If you’re thinking of applying (or just want to study how a partner-led accelerator works), this one’s for you.

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In this episode of Founders' Backpack, we dive into the Spark Cleantech Accelerator — one of the few programs in the U.S. built specifically for hardware-based climate tech startups. Based in Knoxville, Tennessee, Spark offers a 12-week, in-person experience that combines lab access, technical prototyping, mentorship, and a $15K non-dilutive stipend — all without taking any equity. Whether you're working on carbon capture, energy efficiency, or advanced manufacturing, Spark is designed to take your tech from prototype to pilot-ready.

Sophia and Daniel unpack what founders really get from the program, who’s a good fit, and how to craft a standout application. They share insider tips on aligning with TVA and ORNL, building a presence in Tennessee, and showcasing environmental impact to rise above the competition. If you're a cleantech founder with bold ambitions, this episode is your roadmap to getting accepted into one of the most targeted climate accelerators in the country.

Useful links:

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In this episode of Founders’ Backpack, we dive into Speco, the AI-powered startup that's reinventing how architects and interior designers source materials. Say goodbye to PDF catalogs and keyword chaos — Speco lets you describe materials in plain language or upload an image, and it returns real, ready-to-source products within seconds. We explore how this smart assistant is transforming workflows, cutting down sourcing time, and helping creatives stay focused on what they do best: design.

Sophia and Daniel break down the impact Speco is having on the design ecosystem — from democratizing access to indie material makers, to streamlining communication between designers and reps. It’s a powerful example of vertical AI done right. Plus, we talk about why we have to bring the Speco founders onto the show for a deeper, behind-the-scenes conversation. If you're a builder or a designer, this one’s for you.

Learn more: https://getspeco.ai/