LevelUP Validate is designed for founders strengthening their foundation. It focuses on validating key business assumptions, refining positioning, and reducing risk before scaling further.

LevelUP Scale is built for companies with traction that are ready to grow intentionally. It focuses on building repeatable systems, refining growth strategy, and scaling in a structured, sustainable way.

If you are still pressure-testing assumptions, refining your value proposition, or clarifying early revenue logic, LevelUP Validate is likely the right fit.

If you have moved beyond validation and are seeing early traction, pilots, paying customers, partnerships, or revenue, and are ready to build repeatable growth systems, LevelUP Scale is the better match.

Unsure which program fits your current stage? Reach out to our team for a quick conversation, we’ll guide you toward the right track.

No, you do not need to complete LevelUP Validate before applying to LevelUP Scale. However, in most cases, we highly recommend starting with Validate to ensure your foundation is strong before focusing on growth.

Scale participants should already have validated demand and early traction. If additional foundational validation is needed, we may recommend beginning with LevelUP Validate.

LevelUP Validate is delivered in a hybrid format, meaning you can participate either virtually or in person, depending on your preference.

LevelUP Scale is delivered primarily virtually. However, participants may access office space when needed, subject to availability.

The LevelUP Business Accelerator is completely free to join, with no equity taken in your business.

LevelUP Validate requires approximately 1 hour per week of live workshop time, plus structured validation work between sessions.

LevelUP Scale involves a deeper commitment, including workshops, advisory sessions, and independent implementation work. Participants should expect to dedicate meaningful time each week to applying what they learn. For the strongest results, we highly recommend that at least one full-time founder is actively committed to the program throughout its duration.

All applications are reviewed by our team. Selected applicants may be invited to a brief assessment conversation to ensure stage alignment.

Successful applicants will receive onboarding details and program expectations prior to the start date.

All graduates become part of the Innovation Cluster community, with continued access to select events, resources, and ecosystem connections. In addition, graduates receive a verified digital Credly badge recognizing their achievement and program completion.

LevelUP Validate graduates may apply to LevelUP Scale if they are ready to move into growth-focused programming. They may also explore becoming Innovation Cluster clients to continue receiving structured advisory support.

LevelUP Scale graduates have the opportunity to continue working with the Innovation Cluster as clients, accessing ongoing mentorship, expert support, and ecosystem connections.