Applications Now Open for Global Insurance Accelerator’s 2026 Cohort  

The Global Insurance Accelerator (GIA), a nationally recognized insurtech incubator based in Des Moines, Iowa, has officially opened applications for its 2026 100-Day Program. This equity-based accelerator is calling on early-stage startups, disruptors, and founders with solutions aimed at transforming the insurance industry.  

Applications will be accepted now through Friday, September 19, 2025. The accelerator offers selected startups $50,000 in seed funding, access to more than 75 mentors, direct connections to leading insurance companies, and a platform to present their work at the Global Insurance Symposium. 

The message from GIA is clear: If you have an idea that could improve how insurance is done, this your opportunity to move from ideation to implementation. All ideas are welcome from underwriting to claims resolution, to customer engagement and automation, if you have an idea, the GIA wants to hear about it.  

A Platform Built for Insurance-Focused Innovation 

Unlike broad-spectrum accelerators, GIA is intentionally designed with an insurance-only focus. Now in its ninth year, the accelerator has supported dozens of successful insurtech startups through a rigorous and highly collaborative 15-week hybrid program. With its roots deep in the insurance capital of the U.S., Des Moines, the GIA provides startups with unmatched access to real-time feedback from industry insiders. 

Participating companies will receive a $50,000 investment in exchange for 5% equity through a post-money SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity). Each startup follows the same investment structure, which is non-negotiable, ensuring equal access and opportunity across the cohort. 

What sets the GIA apart is its mentor-driven model. Startups will engage directly with a hand-picked group of mentors drawn from leading insurance carriers, claims professionals, actuaries, underwriters, and regulators. These mentors provide hands-on guidance, assist with go-to-market strategy, offer product feedback, and help shape pitch materials. 

According to GIA leadership, each company typically meets with 75 mentors during the first three weeks of the program, ultimately forming a personalized team of advisors who remain engaged throughout the accelerator and beyond. 

Why the Workers’ Compensation Industry Should Pay Attention 

The workers’ compensation sector has experienced a slower pace of innovation compared to other lines of insurance. Challenges such as claims lag, return-to-work inefficiencies, outdated technology, and siloed data systems continue to burden employers, adjusters, and injured workers alike. While discussions around transformation are growing louder, execution remains elusive. 

That is exactly why the 2026 GIA cohort presents a critical opportunity for workers’ compensation professionals, vendors, and service providers who are ready to build tangible solutions. 

Innovation areas that align with workers’ comp needs include: 

• Claims automation and resolution tools 

• Real-time injury reporting and triage support 

• AI-driven predictive modeling for claim complexity 

• Streamlined communication platforms between stakeholders 

• Enhanced transparency and tracking for injured workers 

• Data integrations for better return-to-work planning 

• Simplified compliance reporting and form handling 

The GIA’s focus on insurance-specific solutions means applicants are not required to “translate” their value proposition for outsiders. The mentors and investor companies already understand the complexities of claims, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation. 

For industry insiders with bold ideas, this is a launchpad built precisely for you! Especially those who have worked in claims handling, employer services, or healthcare coordination. Bring your ideas and let’s get started!  

A Hybrid Program Designed for Impact 

The GIA 100-Day Program is structured in three phases: 

Phase 1: Onboarding and Mentor Speed-Dating (3.5 weeks, in-person in Des Moines) 
Startups are onboarded, introduced to the GIA community, and participate in back-to-back meetings with over 75 mentors. 

Phase 2: Deep Work and Development (9 weeks, remote) 
This virtual phase includes mentor check-ins, product feedback loops, educational panels, and CEO/founder fireside chats. 

Phase 3: Pitch Preparation and Presentation (3 weeks, in-person in Des Moines) 
Final pitch development takes place alongside continued mentorship. The program culminates with presentations at the Global Insurance Symposium—a marquee event drawing investors, executives, and insurance thought leaders. 

This structure supports flexibility while ensuring the immersive experience needed to accelerate growth. Founders remain focused on building their companies while gaining insight into real-world applications from seasoned professionals. 

Program Eligibility and Applicant Profile 

GIA is seeking early-stage startups with insurance-centric solutions. Applicants should be: 

• In pre-seed or seed stages 

• Focused on solving insurance-specific challenges 

• Led by 1–2 founders ready to actively participate in the program 

• Interested in entering or expanding within the U.S. insurance market 

International applicants are welcome, as long as their roadmap includes serving the U.S. market. Over the last nine years, GIA has had representation from five continents, reinforcing its truly global commitment. 

Ideal applicant solutions may fall into categories such as: 

• Claims handling and adjudication 

• Underwriting and risk analysis tools 

• New insurance product development 

• AI/ML applications for decision-making 

• Workflow efficiency and automation 

• Cyber, property, and commercial lines enhancements 

The GIA team also notes that applications are reviewed through a three-stage process, including interviews with staff, board members, and selection committees representing investor carriers. All applicants will receive investment term details before the interview phase begins. 

Virtual Open House: Learn Before You Apply 

A virtual open house will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM CST, where prospective applicants can: 

• Meet the GIA team 

• Hear directly from a GIA alumni founder 

• Connect with a mentor from an investor company 

• Get application questions answered 

Registration is required and open to anyone interested in learning more about the program. 

Click here to register 

The Time to Act Is Now 

With the application deadline fast approaching, the GIA 2026 program offers a rare opportunity to put innovation into motion within an industry that is hungry for change. The workers’ compensation sector in particular has much to gain from technology solutions that simplify the experience for employers, carriers, and injured workers alike. 

From claim automation to compassionate communication tools, the insurance space is ready for disruption grounded in real-world knowledge. The GIA offers the platform. The rest is up to those with the ideas to step forward. 

For more information and to apply, visit: www.globalinsuranceaccelerator.com 

For questions, contact Jess Louis at jess@globalinsuranceaccelerator.com. 

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