Skydeck

SkyDeck operates as a premier startup accelerator and incubator program directly affiliated with the University of California, Berkeley. It provides comprehensive support to early-stage companies, offering extensive mentorship from a large advisor network, strategic customer development, and specialized training through its Berkeley Acceleration Method. Accelerator participants receive a $200,000 investment from the Berkeley SkyDeck Fund, aiding the commercialization of university innovations.

Established by UC Berkeley in 2012, SkyDeck emerged from the insight that formalizing and leveraging the university's vast intellectual and alumni resources could significantly foster entrepreneurial success. This led to a distinctive public-private partnership: the Berkeley SkyDeck Fund, managed by Chon Tang and Brian Bordley, channels investment profits back to UC Berkeley, directly supporting its educational mission.

The program primarily targets early-stage startups, particularly those with UC Berkeley affiliations, guiding them from conception to market readiness. SkyDeck’s vision is to be a leading global innovation hub, deeply committed to fostering diversity and equitable access, transforming academic breakthroughs into impactful ventures while strengthening the university’s mission.