Draper University Backs Cardano Accelerator with $70k Funding Bets

Draper University has partnered with Cardano and Orion Fund to launch the Apex acceleration program in Silicon Valley. The initiative aims to drive the development of startups focused on decentralized finance (DeFi) and Web3 infrastructure ready for institutional capital.

The application window for the Apex Growth Accelerator closes on September 1, 2026, and on-site activities begin on October 5, 2026. Selected startups will receive up to $70,000 in funding in exchange for a 3.5% equity stake.

According to Tim Draper, founder of Draper University, this collaboration channels resources toward initiatives with already structured minimum viable products. Through this model, they aim to transform early-stage projects into entities capable of securing formal funding rounds.