Fredericton entrepreneurship hub Planet Hatch has announced a partnership with the University of New Brunswick’s Faculty of Management to increase the resources available to participants in its Startup Accelerator.

First launched in 2019, the Startup Accelerator has graduated seven companies from two cohorts. The program lasts 11 weeks and its curriculum includes market research, branding, financial modelling and other topics.

Planet Hatch said in a statement that COVID-19 has made startups’ need for support more pressing. The Startup Accelerator is meant to address that demand.

“Great change often opens up great opportunities,” said Planet Hatch Director Adam Peabody in a statement.

Cohort companies will be able to access up to $25,000 of funding for commercialization and business development activities. Planet Hatch’s statement did not specify whether that money is from its Impact Loan program, Seed Grant Fund or another source.

Each participating company will also have access to advice from one of UNB’s MBA candidates, as well as classes taught by Faculty of Management Assistant Professor David Foord.

The deadline to apply for the next Startup Accelerator cohort is August 28. Companies must have a minimal viable product and a clearly defined team and ownership model. Apply here.