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Accelerating Concept to Commercialization in Kansas (ACCEL-KS)

ACCEL-KS is a statewide initiative of the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Office of Innovation, aimed at supporting and accelerating the commercialization of groundbreaking ideas and products, transforming them into market-ready solutions. By prioritizing Proof-of-Concept (PoC) and Research & Development (R&D) efforts, ACCEL-KS activates Kansas’ innovation ecosystem to deliver critical financial and wrap-around support systems to fast-tracking high-potential projects toward commercial success. The program is designed to drive commercialization, foster new startup creation, stimulate economic growth, and generate high-quality jobs—aligning with Kansas’ broader vision for a dynamic, resilient, and innovation-driven economy.

Groover Labs – Wichita

ACCEL-KS at Groover Labs is a hands-on, founder-focused program supporting innovators across Kansas with mentoring, grant funding, prototyping, and entrepreneurship education. Located in a 42,000 sq. ft. innovation center in downtown Wichita, Groover Labs is more than a workspace—it’s a nonprofit-powered launchpad for early-stage ideas to become viable, fundable businesses.

Groover Labs serves as a vital node in the Kansas startup ecosystem, with a five-year track record of delivering high-impact programming to software and hardware entrepreneurs. It combines a nationally recognized mentor network, deep prototyping capabilities, and a collaborative community into a supportive pipeline for innovators—from first idea to early investment.

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KU Innovation Park – Lawrence

ACCEL-KS at KU Innovation Park delivers structured, cohort-based proof-of-concept (PoC) support for high-potential entrepreneurs across Kansas. Backed by a strong university partnership and a proven commercialization platform, KU Innovation Park helps innovators turn big ideas into investable businesses.

Located in Lawrence, KU Innovation Park is a nonprofit innovation hub that serves as the commercialization partner for the University of Kansas. It is home to a growing network of startups, researchers, and high-tech companies. KU Innovation Park blends academic strength, business strategy, and startup know-how to accelerate early-stage innovation across biosciences, engineering, cybersecurity, and more.

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Contact

Program Details

Who Should Apply?

ACCEL-KS is designed for:

Early-stage startups and founders
Innovators with a product idea or prototype
Researchers seeking commercialization paths
Entrepreneurs looking for technical assistance or market validation

What Support is Available?

Selected partners offer:

Proof-of-Concept development
Prototyping and lab access
Mentorship and coaching
Commercialization and business planning support
Access to funding resources

ACCEL-KS places special emphasis on supporting rural innovators. At least 30% of supported projects must originate in rural Kansas.

Why It Matters

ACCEL-KS reflects Kansas’ commitment to innovation, job creation, and a future-ready economy. With a combined $800,000 investment, the program will support over 30 commercialization efforts across the state—fueling our next generation of businesses and technologies.

CONTACT

Brandon Hutton, Director of Innovation Development and Programming

(785) 480-8554

[email protected]

Kansas Angel Investor Tax Credit

ACCEL-KS

Sector Development

Framework for Growth

Business in Kansas