AcceleratorAI-firstby Character Capital

Character Labs

Short, sprint-based AI accelerator from the Design Sprint creators, focused entirely on finding product-market fit.

Invests

Varies by batch

Takes

About 5% (recent batches)

Length

5 to 8 weeks (varies by batch)

Where

Remote

The deal

Published terms have changed by batch; recent listings cite $150K to $200K for about 5% equity, so confirm on the application page.

Character Labs is run by Character Capital, whose partners Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky created the Design Sprint. Each batch takes a small group of AI startups through back-to-back sprints to test product and go-to-market ideas in days. The program is mostly remote and reached its sixth batch (G6) in 2026.

Invests: Varies by batch
Takes: About 5% (recent batches)
Length: 5 to 8 weeks (varies by batch)
Format: Remote
Based in: San Francisco, US
Runs in: Remote, San Francisco
Stage: Pre-seed
Focus: AI startups seeking product-market fit
Cohorts: G6 ran May 12 to June 9, 2026; another batch closed applications September 23, 2026
Perks: Structured Design Sprint and Foundation Sprint sessions, 1:1 support from Character partners

Apply ↗Website ↗Ask the room

Terms as published by the program; verified October 2026. Programs change their deal every year, the apply page is the source of truth.

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