Co-founded by NBA Champion Pascal Siakam, this accelerator supports North American startups revolutionizing K-12 education and upskilling youth in AI.
Where NBA power
meets EdTech innovation.
With resources from PS43 and DMZ, the Siakam EdTech Engine gives startups a clear path from idea to adoption — connecting founders directly with educators, school boards and community partners.
12-week accelerator.
Program begins April 2026, just 1-2 hours of weekly commitment.
Expert guidance.
Work with top entrepreneurs, industry leaders and education professionals
Real-world testing.
Pilot solutions directly with school boards, educators, students and partner organizations.
$50,000 in prizes.
Compete for grants at Demo Day in front of judge Pascal Siakam.
Program highlights.
Explore big moments from Year 1 of the Siakam EdTech Engine program.
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An accelerated pathway from MVP to real-world adoption.
Unlike traditional accelerators, the Siakam EdTech Engine prioritizes real-world testing, placing startup solutions directly in classrooms, schools and community environments where youth learn and grow.
Startups apply to solve real challenges identified by educators and community organizations, creating a faster, more meaningful path from idea to pilot to adoption.
Apply by Friday, March 13
Apply to program here
Small cohorts - limited spots available
Shortlisted startups are invited to a screening conversation
Selected founders receive a formal offer to join the cohort
Program begins Monday, April 20
Join your cohort kickoff and orientation
Get introduced to your dedicated DMZ Program Lead
Align on goals, milestones, and success metrics for the program
Connect with DMZ’s Experts-in-Residence for strategic support
Accelerate your growth over 12 weeks
Receive hands-on guidance through 1:1 Program Lead touchpoints
Gain visibility through PS43’s education and community network
Work directly with school boards, educators, students, and partners to pilot your solution
Refine your product based on real-world feedback and use cases
Pitch at Demo Day in July
Pitch your solution at an in-person Demo Day this July
Compete for grant prizes in a pool of $50,000
Gain visibility with educators, investors and ecosystem leaders
As a startup, if you want a school board to bring you in, you need to go through a lot of hoops. The awareness that this program provided is incredibly valuable. PS43 and DMZ really cheered us on; they felt like a part of our team.
James & Cheryl Hayes
Co-founders, Cyber Legends | Program Alumni
Who should apply?
We’re looking for early-stage startups building solutions for education, youth learning, and skill development.
Solution • Addresses challenges in K-12 education, youth learning or AI skill development.
Stage of growth • A validated MVP with early traction or feedback.
Geographic focus • Operational readiness in North America with plans to scale.
Team • At least one full time founder and one in-house technical lead.
Our partners.
This program pairs PS43’s vast industry connections and resources with DMZ’s award-winning startup programming and expert mentorship.
Presenting Partner
SUPPORTING PARTNER
TECHNICAL PARTNER
Community Partner
