startup accelerators

Big Idea Ventures and Mars Petcare have selected the startups joining the 2026 Next Generation Pet Food Program, an accelerator focused on innovation in pet food, including alternative proteins and new ingredients. The chosen companies will receive investment, mentoring and access to Mars Petcare's network as they develop products for the pet food market.

A Polish photonics startup has taken the top prize at the Luminate NY accelerator competition in Rochester, New York, winning $1 million. The award, reported by the Rochester Business Journal, highlights the growing international reach of the optics and photonics competition, which funds early-stage companies developing light-based technologies.