What it is

SEED SPOT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. Its stated mission is to educate, accelerate and invest in entrepreneurs who are creating solutions to social problems. It describes a decade of work supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs and a network of more than 400 mentors. Beyond Phoenix it runs programs in other markets, including Chicago and Washington, DC.

DC Launch Camp

The DC Launch Camp is a free, one-day, in-person program for early-stage entrepreneurs. The current session is listed for Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM at EY Wave, 1101 New York Ave NW, Washington, DC, with a final application deadline of October 30, 2026. The day covers:

  • A business opportunity deep dive and a customer empathy map
  • Explaining your solution in three steps
  • Refining your elevator pitch with mentors and peers, with real-time feedback
  • A mentor networking session, plus breakfast and lunch provided by SEED SPOT

Participants leave with a refined pitch, a clearer customer profile and lifetime alumni benefits.

Who it is for

The camp is designed for underrepresented entrepreneurs in any industry, defined broadly to include BIPOC founders, women, LGBTQIA+ people, veterans, immigrants and people from rural or low-to-moderate-income communities. Early stage means prototyping or one to five years from launch. Ideally ventures have a minimum viable product and at least one sale or customer. Full attendance for the whole day is required and admitted participants sign a participation agreement.

How to apply

Apply through the form linked from the DC Launch Camp page, which also links to an info session video and a booking link for a short call with the recruitment team. Founders who want more support afterward can look at the Impact Accelerator and the full program list.

Why it matters in the DMV ecosystem

For idea-stage and early founders in the DC area, especially those from underrepresented groups, the Launch Camp is a no-cost, single-day way to pressure test a business idea and pitch with experienced mentors. It also connects local founders to a national nonprofit network with follow-on accelerator programs. Because the camp is short and free, it suits founders who want structured feedback before committing to a longer accelerator.