MetLIfe accepting applications for 2nd digital accelerator +video

CARY–MetLife, Inc. (NYSE:MET) has announced that applications are now open for the second MetLife Digital Accelerator powered by Techstars.

The MetLife Digital Accelerator identifies and mentors startups around the globe that are developing transformational capabilities and potentially industry-disrupting technologies in the insurance space.

Startups selected will be hosted at MetLife’s Global Technology Campus in Cary, North Carolina, for the duration of the program. Startups may apply here.

MetLife says its goal is to have first-mover advantage on capabilities that are strategically important both to MetLife and its customers.

Selected entrepreneurs will join a 13-week mentorship program and gain access to a network of MetLife and Techstars leaders and technologists. At the conclusion of the program, each founder will present their accomplishments to MetLife, potential investors, local entrepreneurs and the media during “Demo Day.”

“MetLife’s digital-transformation strategy is focused on innovating internally while also looking across industries to gain critical external perspectives,” said Greg Baxter, executive vice president and MetLife’s Chief Digital Officer in a statement.

“Digital Accelerator is an important part of our innovation ecosystem. Our goal is to have first-mover advantage on capabilities that are strategically important both to MetLife and its customers.”

MetLife’s first Digital Accelerator in partnership with Techstars concluded in October of last year, and MetLife is now pursuing pilots with nine of the 10 companies, with five tests already in flight.

“The MetLife Digital Accelerator powered by Techstars provides entrepreneurs access to MetLife’s 150 years of deep experience in a highly complicated and regulated industry, and it provides access to 10,000 Techstars mentors who have built and scaled successful businesses,” said Andrew Bate, Co-founder & CEO of Safely and a 2018 Digital Accelerator participant. “I’d highly recommend it for any startup considering an accelerator program.

Who Should Apply

MetLife and Techstars are looking for entrepreneurs who are building next-generation financial services solutions, particularly those focused on:

Customers, for example, solutions to support freelancers or those who participate in the gig or sharing economies.

Products, for example, new approaches to deliver employee benefits or experiences that will support the financial, emotional or physical health of customers.

Process, for example, new ways to underwrite and manage risk or technologies to accelerate integration across industry partners.