Instant industry
credibility.
Parking is a relationship business, and breaking in is hard. Accelerate! puts early-stage companies on stage in front of the operators, owners, and entrepreneurs who've been exactly where you are. Get selected. Get connected. Accelerate!
"Finally pitching to people who truly get parking was incredible. The judges asked tough questions, but that's what makes it real and valuable."
Why this is different
The only pitch competition built by parking entrepreneurs, for parking entrepreneurs.
Judges who've done it
Former winners, parking entrepreneurs, and industry leaders who know the difference between a demo and a deployable product, ready for the unique challenges of the parking industry.
Customers in the room
PIE brings together parking professionals from every type of operation and segment, looking for new solutions. Your pitch creates interest. Your booth is home base to connect, build relationships, and set next steps.
"I started Accelerate! because I wanted the place I wished had existed when we launched our first company. No one outside of the parking industry truly understands how hard parking is and why it's important."
What you get
Discounted booth
50% off a PIE booth of your choice
Pitch coaching
Two sessions with the competition founder
Competitors' dinner
With judges, former competitors, and sponsors
Industry exposure
Parking Today magazine, website, and social media
Winner takes the cover
Feature article and cover in Parking Today's July Innovation Issue
More from past competitors
"Accelerate! opened doors for us: new partnerships, invaluable feedback, and real-world validation. It's an ideal launchpad for startups serious about the parking industry."
"Presenting our unique product technology to a panel of industry professionals, peers, and potential customers was a game changer."
"Accelerate! gave us visibility with industry decision-makers and helped us refine our focus beyond just parking management."
How it works
February 28
Applications close
March 4
Finalists notified (up to 6 selected)
March 9–20
Coaching sessions
March 31
Pitch at PIE, Dallas
Who should apply
- Early-stage parking companies (bootstrapped, pre-seed, seed, or early growth)
- Working product, not just an idea
- Ready to exhibit at PIE and meet customers
- Haven't been an Accelerate! finalist before
FAQ
