Plug and Play

Plug and Play Tech Center is one of the world's largest innovation platforms and startup accelerators, founded in 2006 in Silicon Valley. Operating across 40+ locations globally, they run industry-specific accelerator programs connecting startups with corporate partners and investors.

The program offers a unique model combining acceleration, corporate partnerships, and investment opportunities. Startups gain access to pilot projects with Fortune 500 companies, mentorship from industry experts, and exposure to a global network of investors. Unlike traditional accelerators, Plug and Play focuses on vertical-specific programs (Fintech, Health, IoT, Mobility, etc.) and emphasizes corporate innovation partnerships.

For ZHC builders, Plug and Play provides extensive corporate connections, potential pilot customers, and a proven path to Series A funding through their network of 500+ corporate partners and institutional investors.

Program Structure

• Duration: 3-month accelerator batches
• Vertical Programs: 20+ industry-specific tracks (Fintech, Health, IoT, Supply Chain, Insurtech, etc.)
• Global Locations: Silicon Valley HQ plus 40+ international hubs
• Corporate Partners: 500+ Fortune 500 companies
• Batch Size: 20-30 startups per vertical per batch

Selection Criteria

• Early to growth stage startups (Pre-seed to Series A)
• Product-market fit demonstrated or clear path
• Alignment with specific vertical program focus
• Scalable technology solution
• Strong founding team with domain expertise
• Willingness to engage with corporate partners

Investment Terms

• Typical Investment: $0-$500K per company
• Structure: SAFE or convertible note
• Equity: Typically 3-7% (negotiable)
• Follow-on: Access to Plug and Play Ventures fund
• Corporate Pilots: Non-dilutive revenue opportunities

Program Benefits

• Corporate pilot programs and POCs
• Mentorship from 300+ mentors and advisors
• Office space in Silicon Valley (optional)
• Demo Day exposure to 300+ investors
• Access to $10B+ in follow-on capital
• Global expansion support through international hubs

ZHC-Specific Fit

✅ Excellent for:

• B2B SaaS with enterprise customer focus
• Startups seeking corporate partnerships
• Vertical-specific solutions (fintech, health, supply chain)
• International expansion goals
• Need for pilot customers and validation
• Series A fundraising preparation

❌ Poor fit if:

• Pure consumer/B2C model without enterprise angle
• Too early stage (pre-MVP)
• Not willing to relocate or travel to program location
• Seeking very large initial checks (>$500K)
• Service-based or consulting business model

Application Process

Application Requirements

• Company overview and product demo
• Team bios and backgrounds
• Market analysis and competitive landscape
• Traction metrics and customer data
• Financial projections
• Video pitch (2-3 minutes)
• Specific use cases for corporate partners

Program Timeline

• Month 1: Onboarding, mentor matching, corporate introductions
• Month 2: Pilot program development, product refinement
• Month 3: Investor readiness, Demo Day preparation
• Post-Program: Ongoing support and network access

Investment Decision

• Made independently from acceleration
• Based on traction, team, and market opportunity
• Can occur during or after program
• Not required for program participation

Success Metrics

• 1,200+ companies accelerated
• 400+ exits (IPOs and acquisitions)
• $9B+ raised by alumni
• Corporate partnerships leading to $1B+ in revenue

• Official Website
• Accelerator Programs
• Application Portal
• Silicon Valley HQ
• Vertical Programs
• Corporate Partners
• Email: startups@pnptc.com
• LinkedIn: /company/plug-and-play-tech-center
• Twitter/X: @PlugandPlayTC