The Arizona Commerce Authority and Arizona State University’s Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute announced the launch of the Fall 2025 Cohort of Venture Start, an accelerator designed to equip early-stage entrepreneurs with the tools and community needed to grow their ventures. The Fall 2025 Cohort sessions will be held beginning October 28, 2025.
Launched in 2024, Venture Start is a six-session accelerator that helps early-stage startups validate their idea and target market, define and refine their go-to market strategy, and acquire early customers through interactive, live curriculum. Venture Start introduces a founder-centered, accessible pathway for early-stage entrepreneurs through hybrid programming hosted at ASU’s 850PBC and a digital platform open to all. Venture Start expands access to the Arizona innovation ecosystem with support from the Arizona Commerce Authority.
“The ACA is committed to advancing our startup ecosystem, supporting small businesses, and driving innovation to strengthen our economy,” said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “Arizona’s innovation community is among the most welcoming in the world – and through our partnership with ASU Edson E+I on Venture Start, more entrepreneurs will have access to the tools, resources, and support to help them thrive.”
“Edson E+I has proven a new model for providing access to innovation tools that drive economic development,” said Kristin Slice, Director of Community Entrepreneurship at ASU Edson E+I. “Partnering with the Arizona Commerce Authority brings this approach to more people across the state. As the top university in innovation and a global leader in delivering accessible tools at scale, ASU is uniquely positioned to expand access for every Arizona entrepreneur.”
