Pipeline applications

Pipeline Opens Applications for Its 2017 Class

Starting today, you can apply for the Pipeline Entrepreneurial Fellowship, a KC-based accelerator that gives young companies the tools they need to rapidly scale up their operations.


About 10 to 13 people will be selected for the yearlong program, which provides training, coaching and networking to entrepreneurs from Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri. An online application form is available at this website.

The application deadline is Oct. 19. There will be two rounds of interviews for selected applicants—Nov. 9-10 and Dec. 7-8 in Kansas City.

Then the 2017 Pipeline class will be announced on Jan. 26 at The Innovators, Pipeline’s annual awards gala.

People who are admitted to Pipeline will attend a series of four “modules”—three-day intensive learning sessions. That includes a “mystery” site that’s outside the Midwest or sometimes outside the United States.

  • Module 1: Feb. 22-24 in Kansas City
  • Module 2: June 7-9, location to be announced
  • Module 3: Sept. 13-15 in Nebraska
  • Module 4: Nov. 8-10 in St. Louis

“Over the last 10 years, Pipeline has helped 100 high-growth founders in building global businesses, right here in the Midwest,” said Joni Cobb, Pipeline’s president and CEO. “We’re continuing to expand our network both nationally and internationally. There’s never been a better time to apply to Pipeline.”

One thing that distinguishes Pipeline is that, even after the yearlong training, members are encouraged to stay active in its programming and network.

“Pipeline is one of the best ways to reduce risk and accelerate the chance of success that we have,” said Toby Rush, EyeVerify CEO and a Pipeline alumnus. “It’s been here for me for the last 10 years, and it’s an honor to share the opportunity.”