Why SEP is Launching a Tech Accelerator in Summit County
The Summit Economic Partnership is proud to launch the Fall High Country Tech Growth Challenge, a tech-oriented accelerator designed to nurture local companies and stimulate the growth of Summit County's economy. The program will bring together seven promising local startups—TreadShare, StayLoci, PHRED Solutions Inc, TubeSift, Backcountry Bonds, Public House, and Vabhoa Software—in an intensive, collaborative environment aimed at accelerating their growth and setting them on a path to long-term success.
But what exactly is a tech accelerator, and why is SEP putting so much effort into organizing this challenge?
What is a Tech Accelerator?
A tech accelerator is a program designed to help early-stage companies grow rapidly over a short period. It provides startups with access to mentorship, resources, and a network of experts and investors, often in exchange for equity or investment opportunities. Participants in these programs receive focused guidance and support that helps them refine their business models, improve products or services, and ultimately become more attractive to investors and customers.
Accelerators typically include structured curriculum sessions, workshops, one-on-one mentorship, and networking events. The goal is to fast-track a company's progress, enabling them to scale their operations much quicker than they would on their own. For startups, these programs can be transformative, offering both the knowledge and resources needed to thrive in competitive markets.
Helping Companies Thrive
For the seven companies from Summit County selected to participate in the Fall High Country Tech Growth Challenge, this six week accelerator represents an invaluable opportunity. Each company brings a unique offering to the local economy:
Public House: A streamlined online application management system designed to simplify affordable housing application processes
TubeSift: An AI-enabled software platform that helps advertisers target their audiences more effectively on YouTube.
Backcountry Beauties: A community-driven app and platform that empowers women to connect and explore the outdoors together.
TreadShare: A ride-sharing platform focused on outdoor enthusiasts looking for sustainable travel options.
StayLoci: A rental platform offering additional tools for hosts to increase opportunities for longer stays.
PHRED Solutions Inc: A software company developing solutions to optimize manufacturing processes and logistics.
Vabhoa Software: A custom software platform that integrates various lodging hardware systems, streamlining operations to improve the overall customer experience.
By participating in the accelerator, these companies will gain access to mentorship from industry experts, the ability to network with potential investors, and the opportunity to showcase their products and services to a larger audience. The program will culminate in a demo day pitch event on December 6th (more details to come!)
Diversifying Summit County’s Economy
One of SEP’s primary goals in hosting the Fall High Country Tech Growth Challenge is to diversify Summit County’s economy. As I’ve mentioned previously, Summit County has been heavily reliant on tourism, particularly during the ski season. While tourism is essential, a more diversified economy can help buffer the community against seasonal downturns and economic shocks—such as those seen during the pandemic.
By fostering the growth of technology-focused businesses, SEP is creating new economic opportunities that can exist alongside the traditional tourism-based economy. These tech startups are not only generating jobs but also attracting investment to the area. A thriving tech sector can stimulate innovation, increase the number of high-paying jobs, and reduce the economy’s dependence on tourism.
Ultimately, SEP’s vision is to make Summit County a hub for innovation in the High Country, where tech companies can flourish and contribute to the region’s long-term economic sustainability. The Fall High Country Tech Growth Challenge is a key part of that vision, as it accelerates the growth of local companies that have the potential to become pillars of the Summit County economy in the years to come.
As these businesses grow, they will help shape a more resilient, diverse economy—one that ensures Summit County remains a great place to live, work, and play for generations to come.