Grow Faster at Luminate
the world's only accelerator for startups with optics, photonics, imaging, and laser-enabled technologies
WHO WE ARE
Luminate is an accelerator and investment fund that awards $3 million annually to 10 companies from around the world developing emerging solutions in almost every industry.
We’re looking for cohort 9! Applications are open through January 12, 2026.
WHAT'S HAPPENING
Feel the pulse of progress at Luminate Finals 2026
Part tech demos and startup competition, part thought leadership, all about innovation. $2M awarded!
NSF selects Rochester as laser hub
The NSF STELLAR Engine project will advance laser research, commercialization, and workforce development.
Help fuel innovation
Get involved in the world’s only accelerator for optics, photonics, imaging, and lasers.
WHY LUMINATE
If you’re developing innovative technology, we’ll help you succeed with capital, connections, and a community of resources.
FUNDING
$100K investment upon acceptance with an additional $2M available to the top companies per cohort
CONNECTIONS
Access to our extensive network of domain experts, corporate sponsors, and investors
COACHING
Advice and mentoring from industry leaders, including our actively involved advisory board
Luminate has been an absolutely transformative opportunity for us—from tapping into industry expertise to establishing strategic partnerships and synergies with the unrivaled Rochester optics and photonics ecosystem.”
Luís Valente, founder & CEO, iLof (cohort 6)
OUR PORTFOLIO
The startups in our portfolio are solving problems in AR/VR, cybersecurity, defense, healthcare, IoT, quantum, and other industries.
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