
URBAN-X
Description
URBAN-X is a leading accelerator platform dedicated to supporting startups that are reimagining city life. Built by MINI, a brand of the BMW Group, and operated in partnership with Urban Us, it focuses on ventures developing innovative solutions across critical urban sectors such as climate, infrastructure, mobility, real estate, governance, and commerce. Based in Brooklyn, New York, URBAN-X leverages its unique corporate backing to provide participating companies with unparalleled access to industry expertise, resources, and a global network, positioning them for significant growth and impact within the urban tech ecosystem.
The accelerator typically provides an initial investment of $150,000 in exchange for equity, offering crucial seed capital to early-stage companies. The program itself is an intensive 20-week experience designed to help founders refine their products, develop robust business models, and prepare for subsequent funding rounds. Beyond the capital, startups benefit from hands-on support from a dedicated team of product, design, and engineering experts, alongside mentorship from MINI and BMW Group executives, and a vast network of industry leaders and investors.
Since its inception, URBAN-X has cultivated a substantial portfolio of over 80 companies, showcasing its significant contribution to the urban innovation landscape. These alumni companies have collectively gone on to raise more than $1 billion in follow-on funding from various investors, underscoring the accelerator's effectiveness in identifying and nurturing high-potential ventures. URBAN-X plays a pivotal role in fostering the development of technologies and solutions aimed at creating more sustainable, efficient, and livable cities worldwide.
Investor Profile
URBAN-X has backed more than 85 startups, with 2 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 43 rounds, about 51% of its total and boasts 6 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Pre Seed, Seed, Series A rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States, France, Canada.
- Strong thematic focus on Software, Internet of Things, Information Technology.
- Led 2 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $150K.
Stage Focus
- Pre Seed (67%)
- Seed (26%)
- Series A (2%)
- Convertible Note (2%)
- Series Unknown (1%)
- Non Equity Assistance (1%)
Country Focus
- United States (84%)
- France (4%)
- Canada (2%)
- Switzerland (2%)
- Germany (1%)
- Israel (1%)
- Australia (1%)
- Russian Federation (1%)
- The Netherlands (1%)
Industry Focus
- Software
- Internet Of Things
- Information Technology
- Transportation
- Real Estate
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Infrastructure
- Electric Vehicle
- Saas
- Cleantech
Frequently Asked Questions
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