Bergh Summer Accelerator

The Bergh Summer Accelerator [BSA] empowers students to explore bold ideas, engage deeply with complex challenges, and develop ventures with purpose and potential. Blending rigorous inquiry with practical application, the program fosters an entrepreneurial mindset through hands-on learning, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and meaningful mentorship.

Applications for the 2026 Berg Summer Accelerator will open early in the Spring semester. If you have any questions about the BSA or would like to be notified of when the application period opens, please stop by the Dyer Center or reach out to us at dyercenter@lafayettee.edu

Built at the BSA

Branchout

BSA students don’t just build ventures, they build confidence, connections, and creative momentum. Pictured here: our 2023 cohort on the BranchOut swings, a student-led project that inspired our campus swings and is looking to bring the joy of connecting with nature to campuses across the US.

Read more about Branchout

GoPeer

As part of the BSA, the team behind GoPeer had the time to refine their idea and prototype into a real venture, developing tools to help students take ownership of their learning. With dedicated time, mentorship, and support, they laid the foundation for what would become a successful venture that has since grown and been acquired.

Read more about GoPeer

FAQ

What is the Bergh Startup Accelerator (BSA)?

The BSA is a 10-week, full-time summer program designed to help Lafayette students develop their entrepreneurial ventures. Through hands-on experience, mentorship, and workshops, students build the skills and networks they need to take meaningful steps forward with their ideas.

What kinds of ideas or ventures are a good fit for the BSA?

We’re looking for teams with promising ideas and the commitment to make meaningful progress over the course of an intensive 10-week program. Whether you’re building a for-profit venture, tackling a social or environmental challenge, developing a prototype, or testing a new concept, your project should be at a stage where focused time, structured support, and active mentorship will help you take your next big steps.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any current Lafayette student entering their sophomore, junior, or senior year may apply. Graduating seniors may also participate, as long as at least half of the team will return to campus in the fall.

Can I apply as an individual or must I have a team?

You can, but we strongly encourage students to apply as a team. The program is intensive and collaborative, and most ventures benefit from having a small founding team to share the workload. We accept up to three teams each summer, with a maximum of six students total across all teams. Priority is given to founding student teams of 2-3.

Do I have to be on campus during the BSA?

Yes, all team members are required to stay on or near campus during the duration of the BSA.

Do students get paid for participation in the BSA?

Yes. Each team member will receive a $5,000 stipend to cover living expenses during the 10-week program. Additionally, each team will receive $1,000 in seed funding for venture development.

What kind of support will I receive during the program?

You’ll have access to:

  • Mentorship from alumni and industry professionals
  • Advising from Dyer Center staff and Lafayette faculty
  • Workshops on key entrepreneurial topics
  • A dedicated workspace at the Dyer Center
  • Opportunities to connect with peers, experts, and potential collaborators

What is expected of Participants?

Students are expected to:

  • Work full-time on their venture

  • Attend all required workshops and mentor meetings

  • Participate in weekly check-ins with Dyer Center staff

  • Meet with their assigned mentor at least five times

  • Use the Dyer Center as their daily workspace

  • Show consistent effort toward achieving their agreed-upon milestones

  • Participate in our “Demo Day” that is part of our Fall Open House