ABOUT US
Pittsburgh’s Launchpad for High‑Growth Startups
Our Mission
AlphaLab, powered by Innovation Works, exists to accelerate high-growth startups on their journey from vision to venture. Our mission is to empower founders with the resources, mentorship, and community they need to overcome obstacles, validate their market fit, and gain traction with investors. With specialized tracks in software, hardware, life sciences, and robotics, AlphaLab helps startups find a path to success in Pittsburgh’s thriving ecosystem.
Our History
AlphaLab Launches
AlphaLab, one of the earliest accelerators in the nation, was launched by Innovation Works to provide an alternative to Silicon Valley for local tech entrepreneurs. It has helped establish the Pittsburgh region as a hub of tech talent, fed by local universities.
AlphaLab Gear is Born
Seeing a need to support hardware startups, Innovation Works introduced AlphaLab Gear, making it one of the first three hardware accelerators globally. The program focuses on helping startups scale manufacturing, develop prototypes, and refine supply chains.
AlphaLab Health Joins the Family
Innovation Works partnered with Allegheny Health Network to create AlphaLab Health, an accelerator aimed at life sciences startups. Based at Allegheny General Hospital, it offers clinical mentorship and biosafety lab space to companies navigating the complexities of healthcare innovation.
Launch of the Robotics Factory
Supported by a Build Back Better grant, Innovation Works expanded into robotics with the Robotics Factory. This accelerator supports the region’s flourishing robotics sector with three programs — Create, Accelerate, and Scale — offering capital, prototyping space, and manufacturing partnerships.
Our Approach
AlphaLab’s approach is simple: empower founders to succeed. We prioritize the unique needs of each startup, offering customized guidance, strategic milestones, and a network that extends well beyond Pittsburgh. By fostering small cohorts, we maintain a high level of personal engagement and mentorship, ensuring every founder has the resources and support they need to make meaningful progress.
We consistently gather feedback from founders past and present to refine our approach. As a charter member of the Morrow Global Accelerator Network, AlphaLab leverages the latest accelerator best practices, tailoring them to fit Pittsburgh’s thriving tech ecosystem. Our commitment to founders is evident in every program — from early customer validation to investor pitch prep, we provide the tools, mentorship, and community that define AlphaLab’s difference.
Our Team
Want to Learn More?
AlphaLab’s team is here to support you at every step. Whether you’re exploring your options or ready to dive into the application process, we invite you to connect with us. Attend our virtual office hours, schedule a 1:1 session with a program advisor, or explore our FAQ to discover more about what makes AlphaLab a unique launching pad for startups.
