Question 1

Who is the program open to?

Accepted Answer

Starburst and Hays Caldwell EDP is open to pre-seed and seed startups and mature research projects located in Israel or foreign projects looking to explore a proof of concept in Israel and create value for the local ecosystems.

Question 2

What is the duration of the program?

Accepted Answer

7 months.

Question 3

Is the program virtual or in person?

Accepted Answer

The program requires in person attendance for key milestones such as Kickoff, POC review, and Demo Day at the Starburst and Hays Caldwell EDP office in Tel Aviv. Startups can participate virtually for the rest of the program and have access to workspace in the Midtown building in Tel Aviv.

Question 4

Does the program cost anything?

Accepted Answer

The program does not charge a participation fee but requests a small percentage of equity (2.5% to 5% depending on previous funding). The accelerator provides approximately $100K in-kind value through Starburst accelerator services.

Question 5

Does Starburst and Hays Caldwell EDP provide funding support?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Selected companies may receive investment structured as a SAFE in exchange for equity. The program also prepares founders to raise additional funding and connects them with ecosystem partners.

Question 6

What does the pilot project with IAI look like?

Accepted Answer

The pilot typically follows four phases: Exploratory discussions, Validation through proof-of-concepts, Alignment on scope of work, and Co-development where startups and IAI collaborate to execute the project.

Question 7

What is the time commitment for participating startups during the 7-month program?

Accepted Answer

Startups participate in weekly check-ins, workshops, and collaboration with technical teams. The program includes 5 months of bootcamp followed by 2 months of support and requires approximately 5 to 7 hours per week.

Question 8

What kind of mentors are we looking for?

Accepted Answer

Starburst and Hays Caldwell EDP is looking for expert industry mentors across various technology fields. Interested mentors can visit the mentor page for more information and to apply.

Question 9

How are mentors paired to startups, and what’s the expected mentor cadence?

Accepted Answer

Mentors are matched based on technology and market needs. Startups typically receive one weekly 1-on-1 mentoring session (30–60 minutes), access to expert office hours, and a backup mentor if scheduling conflicts arise.

Question 10

Are travel, accommodation or relocation costs covered for in-person sessions?

Accepted Answer

No. Travel, lodging, and relocation expenses for bootcamp sessions and Demo Day are the responsibility of the startup.

Question 11

How are POC pilots with IAI selected and scoped?

Accepted Answer

After technology validation, Starburst facilitates technical reviews with IAI engineers. Selection depends on technical fit with an IAI platform, operational feasibility, and a defined pilot scope including deliverables and timeline.

Question 12

What does post-program support look like after Demo Day?

Accepted Answer

For two months after the bootcamp, Starburst and Hays Caldwell EDP continue supporting startups with introductions, business development opportunities, and ecosystem connections.

Question 13

Can we bring additional team members (e.g. engineers, advisors) to workshops and sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Workshops and in-person sessions are open to the startup’s core team. Participants should notify organizers in advance.

Question 14

Who can I contact with further questions regarding application submissions and/or general inquiries?

Accepted Answer

For questions, email ASTRA@starburst.aero. Include your company website, a short description of your technology, and any relevant details.

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