Applications are now open for the 2026 Miller Center for Global Impact Accelerator Program at Santa Clara University.
This six-month, virtual accelerator is designed for social enterprise leaders who are ready to scale their impact with clarity and intention. Through mentor-guided modules and customized curriculum, participants develop a long-term impact strategy, investment-ready business plan, and compelling funding pitch tailored to their enterprise.
There is no cost to participate.
About the Program
The Miller Center’s world-class accelerator supports social enterprises serving people living in poverty. Over six months, selected leaders will:
- Work closely with experienced mentors
- Refine a scalable impact strategy
- Strengthen their business model and financial planning
- Develop a fund-ready pitch deck
- Position their enterprise for growth and investment
The program is entirely virtual, making it accessible to leaders around the world.
Who Should Apply?
The program is designed for senior leaders, such as:
- CEOs
- Executive Directors
- Managing Directors
Applicants must:
- Be fluent in English or Spanish
- Have reliable internet access
- Be proficient in Excel
- Commit to:
- Weekly 1-hour mentor calls
- Several hours per week refining their enterprise strategy
Organisation Requirements
Eligible organisations must:
- Be committed to improving the lives of people living in poverty
- Align with one or more UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Be intentional about advancing:
- Women’s economic power (as leaders, employees, value chain participants, and/or customers)
- Climate resilience, particularly in:
- Safe water and sanitation
- Renewable energy
- Regenerative agriculture
- Or at the intersection of climate and poverty
Additionally, organisations must:
- Be operational for at least one year
- Have at least $50,000 USD in annual earned revenue (not fully grant-dependent)
- Demonstrate commitment to scaling beyond current operations
- Have:
- A working financial model (cash flow, income statement, balance sheet)
- At least 3 full-time staff (or equivalent)
- A minimum 3-month cash runway
ALSO APPLY FOR:
IBM Impact Accelerator Program 2026 for Nonprofits and Government Entities
Key Benefits
Participants receive:
- Six months of structured mentorship
- Customized, practical curriculum
- Strategic guidance to become more investable
- A refined long-range impact and growth plan
- Global peer network access
- No program fees
This accelerator is particularly valuable for social enterprises preparing for investment or scaling to new markets.
Application Timeline
- Early Application Deadline: February 27, 2026
- Early Decision Notification: March 31, 2026
- Regular Application Deadline: April 27, 2026
- Final Notification: May 29, 2026
- Program Begins: June 2026
Applications submitted after April 27 will be considered for the next cohort.
How to Apply
Interested and eligible leaders should submit their applications through the official Miller Center application portal before the deadline.
For full details and application guidelines, visit the official webpage of the Santa Clara University Miller Center for Global Impact Accelerator Program.
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