This is a startup accelerator for Seed-Series B stage HR Tech startups with proven workplace solutions, paying customers, and strong growth potential. Ideal companies have clear customer and investor traction and want to leverage SHRM’s network of HR professionals to grow the business.
WorkplaceTech Accelerator - FAQ
Yes. Many of our participants have done other accelerators. The value of WTA is different: direct access to nearly 340,000+ HR decision-makers and go-to-market acceleration in the HR market specifically.
We invest $200K via SAFE Note with founder-friendly terms. This gives us alignment without immediate dilution, and you maintain full autonomy over the business. We're here to help you tap into the largest HR network in the world and accelerate your go-to-market in this market, not dictate strategy.
Yes. We actively facilitate introductions to investors in our network. Your cohort demos at the Annual Conference in June in front of investors and HR leaders, and we make targeted introductions based on your funding timeline and stage.
14 weeks. After it kicks off in late March 2027, the program culminates at the world’s largest HR conference, SHRM’s Annual Conference & EXPO, in late June.
This is a hybrid program. Our kick-off week will be in-person; cohort members will be invited to visit SHRM HQ for a few days of in-person meetings and events. The remainder of the program will be virtual, aside from the SHRM Annual Conference & EXPO in June.
Founders typically spend around 2 hours per week on program activities. We work with your team to ensure you get maximum value from the program without pulling you away from running the business. This is market acceleration, not a time sink.
Some of our portfolio companies include Sparrow, Humanly and Transcrypts. View our full portfolio here.
Aside from capital investment, we will put the power of SHRM behind you. You will receive:
Your own curated advisory council comprised of HR and business executives matched to you based on your needs.
Connections with potential users for product and market feedback as well as SHRM’s larger network of investors and leaders.
A highly tailored program led by top-notch leaders and executives in the industry.
Expenses-paid trip for up to two (2) individuals per company to SHRM's 2027 Annual Conference & Exposition, including flights, hotel, conference presence, and speaking support where applicable.
Expenses-paid trip for up to two (2) individuals per company to an additional SHRM-hosted conference (selected based on your business focus at SHRM Labs' discretion), including flights, hotel, conference presence and speaking support where applicable.
Exclusive, discounted rates for other SHRM events.
Access to our perks database, which includes either free or highly discounted rates to platforms that will help you take your business to the next level.
One (1) free SHRM membership for one (1) year.
A SHRM Labs sponsored research session. Get an opportunity to collect feedback from your targeted audience on ways to better package and enhance your solutions.
Next steps regarding submitted applications will be communicated around mid-November. Final Cohort selections will occur in February/March 2027.
Visit our contact page, submit your inquiry and someone from our SHRM Labs team will get back to you as soon as possible.