The Forest Business Accelerator is a four-month business development program launched by the Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund in collaboration with Vermont State University and the Northern Border Regional Commission. Designed specifically for U.S.-based startups and seed-stage businesses in the forest and wood industries, the accelerator targets companies developing technologies, products, or services that use low-grade wood or underutilized forest materials, or those enhancing precision forest management through innovative tools and software. The program supports commercialization efforts by providing a unique curriculum and tailored support structure to companies focused on forest-related innovation.
The program's objective is to strengthen the economic resilience and sustainability of the Northern Forest, which stretches across Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and parts of New York. This forest region, one of the world's largest intact temperate forests, is primarily managed by small landowners and family farms. Economic shifts have reduced demand for traditional low-grade wood markets, creating a need for innovation to sustain forest industry jobs and preserve forest ecosystems. By supporting ventures that add value to these low-grade resources or improve forest operations, the Forest Business Accelerator aims to revitalize this crucial economic sector.
Startups in the program benefit from a comprehensive commercialization curriculum, Lens of the Market® ACCELERATED, developed by ecosVC. Participants gain access to industry mentors, investors, suppliers, and customers through virtual and in-person sprints and workshops. Financial support is provided for travel and lodging to two in-person events in Vermont. The program kicks off virtually in August and includes two intensive in-person sessions in Vermont in September and November.
Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based startups or seed-stage businesses working on one or more of the 2025 challenge focus areas. These include products using forest byproducts like chips or resins, wood-based technologies, tools to improve supply chain or forest operations (including AI-driven solutions), and innovations in wood-based heat or energy systems. Applications are submitted via F6S.com and are open from April 14 through June 15, 2025. Cohort selection will be announced on June 27, with programming beginning in August.
Application details include a comprehensive description of the business, its market potential, product development stage, and alignment with the challenge statement. The estimated time to complete the application is not explicitly stated but should be considered moderate, given the depth of required information. For additional support or questions, applicants may contact forestaccelerator@vsjf.org.
The Forest Business Accelerator is supported through the partnership of Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund, Vermont State University, and the Northern Border Regional Commission, with additional sponsorship opportunities available for stakeholders wishing to support innovation in the forest sector.
