Global venture capital powerhouse Accel has unveiled a major expansion of its pre-seed scaling initiative, Accel Atoms, with the launch of two new tracks: Atoms AI and Atoms X.
Tailored for Indian and Indian-origin founders worldwide, the program offers up to $1 million in funding, perks worth over $5 million, and personalized mentorship to selected startups.
The move reflects Accel’s sharpened focus on AI-driven business applications and LeapTech innovations—technologies that promise radical shifts in human experience and industry paradigms.
Accel is a global VC firm known for backing iconic companies like Flipkart, Freshworks, Slack, Spotify, and UiPath.
With this expansion, Accel reinforces its role as a first partner to exceptional teams, helping them scale from inception to global impact.
Atoms AI: Fueling Global Ambitions in Artificial Intelligence
Led by Accel Partners Prayank Swaroop, Anand Daniel, and Anagh Prasad, the Atoms AI track targets startups building across the entire AI stack.
This includes:
- Foundational models (e.g., small language models on the edge, robotics/video data)
- Infrastructure tools (e.g., LLM testing, security frameworks)
- Applications (e.g., core AI agents for enterprise workflows)
Accel sees a growing trend of Indian-origin founders moving to global markets earlier, driven by proximity to customers and the need for cross-border execution support.
“AI is borderless, but execution isn’t,” said Prayank, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure, capital, and mentorship from day zero.
Anand added, “Indian-origin founders are at the center of the AI inflection point. Their ability to build fast, tap into India’s talent pool, and scale globally is unmatched.”
Atoms X: Backing LeapTech Breakthroughs
The newly launched Atoms X track is led by Pratik Agarwal.
It focuses on startups pursuing LeapTech—non-linear innovations in product, technology, or business models that demand long development cycles and deep conviction.
Startups selected for Atoms X will receive:
- Up to $1 million in equity or convertible notes
- Access to R&D experts and technologists
- Narrative and commercialization workshops
- A peer network of mission-driven founders
Accel’s early bets on LeapTech startups like Posha, Sarla Aviation, Wiom, and Haber have validated its thesis that bold ideas need early conviction and sustained support.
Accel Atoms: Streamlined Access and Global Reach
Applications for both tracks are open year-round, with a streamlined process that eliminates long forms and Zoom calls.
Founders can apply collaboratively, regardless of whether they’re at the idea stage, MVP, or pre-revenue.
Accel Atoms has backed more than 40 early-stage startups since its inception in 2021.
Many of these companies have raised substantial follow-on funding and evolved into category-defining businesses.
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