PeaceTech Accelerator

The PeaceTech Accelerator is a distinctive program at the nexus of technology and peacebuilding, established through a strategic partnership between the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) and C5 Accelerate, the accelerator arm of C5 Capital. Launched to foster innovation in the peace and stability sector, the accelerator targets early-stage startups that leverage cutting-edge technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity to address global challenges such as conflict prevention, resolution, and post-conflict recovery. Its mission is to scale social impact ventures that promote peace and stability worldwide.

The program is designed as a cohort-based accelerator, offering a comprehensive suite of resources beyond just capital. Participants benefit from intensive mentorship provided by experts from both USIP's peacebuilding domain and C5 Capital's technology and venture ecosystem. This unique blend of expertise helps startups refine their technological solutions, develop sustainable business models, and navigate the complex landscape of social impact.

A core component of the PeaceTech Accelerator is its seed funding. Each selected startup typically receives up to $100,000 in capital, which is instrumental for product development, market validation, and initial scaling efforts. In addition to financial backing, the program provides access to C5's extensive global network and USIP's deep insights into peace and conflict dynamics. The structured 12-week curriculum further supports ventures in enhancing their capabilities and preparing for subsequent investment rounds or broader deployment.

By focusing on dual-use technologies that can serve both commercial and humanitarian objectives, the PeaceTech Accelerator occupies a unique niche in the venture landscape. It exemplifies a model where philanthropic commitment from USIP converges with private sector investment and acceleration expertise from C5 Capital to cultivate entrepreneurial solutions for some of the world's most pressing peace and security challenges, driving both innovation and measurable social impact.