Nitro

Description

Nitro is a Web3 accelerator providing $500,000 in funding plus intensive mentorship and ecosystem support. Focused on the intersection of blockchain and AI, Nitro runs a 10-12 week program designed to rapidly accelerate crypto and autonomous systems projects.

⚠️ NEXT DEADLINE: March 14, 2026

For ZHC builders in Web3, Nitro offers significant capital for the stage (often more than YC for crypto projects), plus deep connections in the crypto ecosystem. The program emphasizes AI agents, autonomous organizations, DeFi infrastructure, and DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks).

Eligibility

Focus Areas

AI agents on blockchain
Autonomous DeFi protocols
On-chain automation
DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure)
Cross-chain infrastructure
ZK and privacy tech

Stage

Pre-seed to seed stage
Working prototype strongly preferred
Technical founding team required

ZHC-Specific Fit

✅ Excellent for:

Autonomous trading agents
DAO automation tools
Self-operating DeFi protocols
AI + blockchain convergence
Agent coordination systems

❌ Poor fit if:

Pure Web2 SaaS without crypto component
Consumer apps without decentralization
No technical team

Application Process

Application Steps

Step	Timeline	Details
Online application	Before Mar 14	Project description, team, demo
Review	2-3 weeks	Nitro team evaluation
Interviews	1 week	Selected teams invited
Decision	1 week	Final acceptances
Program start	April 2026	10-12 week acceleration
Demo Day	June 2026	Investor presentations

Investment Terms

Component	Details
Investment	$500,000
Structure	Equity or token warrant
Program	10-12 weeks intensive
Location	Remote + optional in-person events

What You Get

$500K investment
Mentorship from crypto veterans
Technical support and security audits
Investor network access
Partner introductions (CEXs, protocols)
Demo Day exposure
Alumni network
Ongoing support post-batch

Nitro Accelerator Review: A ZHC Builder's Guide