Open to early-stage ventures (for-profit or non-profit) from Johns Hopkins or the greater Baltimore area, SIL aims to transform mission-driven ventures into thriving, measurable-impact organizations.
Program Structure and Pace
Ventures join a collaborative cohort focused on customer discovery, financial literacy, fundraising, impact measurement, and storytelling. The six-month program starts in January and features weekly sessions, monthly in-person “SuperSaturdays” for hands-on thematic workshops, and curated workshops covering topics such as problem discovery, operational refinement, financial planning, and go-to-market strategies. Participants produce key deliverables, meet regularly with strategic advisors, and are introduced to the broader SIL community.
Community and Mentorship
SIL’s 15-member cohort emphasizes a strong, supportive learning community with practical, hands-on exercises. The accelerator connects teams to a wide network of mentors, advisors, partners, and funders from Baltimore and beyond, including community leaders and Johns Hopkins affiliates, to aid in growth, fundraising, and strategic planning. Founders also participate in one-on-one meetings with assigned strategic advisors regularly to assess their venture progress.
Funding and Pathways
Teams that complete SIL are eligible for a $5,000 grant stipend and the opportunity to win a $15,000 cohort prize at the SIL Showcase. The SIL accelerator serves as a stepping stone toward ongoing opportunities in funding, partnerships, and accelerator tracks.