A New Cox, Techstars Partnership

Cox Enterprises announced it will fund a new innovative program and support startup companies who are focused on addressing social and environmental challenges. The "Cox Enterprises Social Impact Accelerator powered by Techstars" is an off-shoot of the work Cox is already doing with the startup incubator, Techstars Atlanta.

Accelerating Innovation
Set to kick off in January 2020, the new three-month accelerator will provide 10 for-profit, mission-driven companies with Cox leaders and experts to help guide them in the early-stages of their businesses. They will also help them grow their networks and prepare to pitch their companies to potential investors at a Demo Day presentation in April 2020.

“Income inequality, cleaner sources of energy and sustainable food production are just some of the challenges we’re all facing,” said Alex Taylor, president and CEO of Cox Enterprises. “Our company wants to invest in the future, and empower great people to create a better future for the next generation. Investing in startups and accelerators like Techstars helps do that.”

An Ongoing Partnership
An accelerator is a term that refers to a group or “cohort-based” program that provides investment, connections and mentorship for startup businesses to help speed their growth over a specified amount of time. Cox, which partnered with Techstars in 2016 to launch Techstars Atlanta, has already supported 30 Techstars companies in the past three years, more than half of which have stayed in Atlanta. Cox Enterprises Social Impact Accelerator powered by Techstars will run each year for the next three years, creating opportunities for 30 different startups to participate in the program.

“Startup entrepreneurs who are trying to fundamentally solve big problems in innovative ways will feel right at home working with Cox mentors and leadership,” said Maury Wolfe, senior director of Corporate Social Responsibility and Public Affairs, Cox Enterprises. “Corporate social responsibility is embedded in our business strategy here at Cox. It’s why we are making key investments like Techstars that both drive innovation and enhance our communities.”

In addition to Techstars, Cox also funds and supports startups and entrepreneurs through other Atlanta-based partnerships, including Engage, Endeavor and Startup Runway.