StorIAccelerator

An immersive story development accelerator harnessing AI,

mixed reality and other new technologies to advance the future of storytelling.

Entertain. Inspire. Spark Action.

What It Is

A structured accelerator for storytellers combining startup principles with cutting-edge technology and creative mentorship, StorIAccelerator empowers storytellers with the tools, resources, and mentorship needed to create content that addresses humanity’s most pressing issues.

Integrating AI and XR into the content creation processes helps reduce costs, and engage global audiences while mentorship from industry experts and pitch presentations provide unparalleled access, invaluable insight, potential funding and continued growth opportunities.

All rounds of StorIAccelerator are free to participants.

How It Works

StorIAccelerator consists of three, progressive rounds where creators become storytelling entrepreneurs—equipped with cutting-edge AI, tools, and technology to craft uplifting stories that give audiences actionable hope. From open webinar-style presentations and interactive workshops to one-on-one mentor sessions and professional pitch opportunities creators gain practical, real-world experience in a supportive community environment.

RND 01

1 Week (Oct. 27 – Oct. 31)

Webinar-style sessions exploring the ethos of the StorIAccelerator model as it relates to “impact storytelling” including overview sessions on the current technology landscape, major tools and the advantages of using data-driven research and rapid iteration to improve the creative development process and distribution reach.

OPEN ENROLLMENT | REMOTE

RND 02

3 Weeks (Dec. 01 – Dec. 19)

A combination of plenary-style seminars and interactive sessions delving further into the concepts introduced in Round 1, focused on accelerating the real-world projects of selected participants. Mentors are introduced and teams explore the use of new technologies to further the development of their stories while conducting qualitative research to support the viability of their projects.

SELECTIVE | REMOTE

RND 03

8 Weeks (Jan. 12 – Mar. 20)

The final round of StorIAccelerator centers deep mentorship and hands-on workshop to further accelerate selected participant projects and prepare for Pitch Day where top teams have the opportunity to pitch live to philanthropists and investors from around the world at the Forward Global Annual Summit in Whistler, BC.

SELECTIVE | REMOTE + IN-PERSON

 StorIAccelerator is underwritten by Apples and Oranges Arts and backed by support from Forward Global’s Women’s Power & Influence Matching Grant initiative.

Together, we can shape stories that offer hope for the future, connecting humanity and driving us toward a more compassionate world.

Mentors

Gretchen Hartley

Senior Director
Marriot International

Maggie Nielson

Chief Growth Officer
Forward Global

Matt Conover

Vice President
Disney Parks Live Entertainment

Jason Yotopoloulos

CEO & Trustee
Emerald Gate Foundation 

Jim Scheinman

Founding Managing Partner
Maven Ventures

Kyle Wright

VP Marketing and Business Development
The Shubert Organization

Paul Gordon

Writer / Composer
Jane Eyre / Daddy Long Legs

Einar Sævarsson

CEO & Founder
Activity Stream

Cher Nobles

Data Director, Marketing & Business Development
The Shubert Organization

COHORT 01 IS UNDERWAY

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Disclaimer:
StorIAccelerator sessions provide general information and creative guidance only. Content shared by presenters and mentors does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Participants bear full responsibility for their creative and business decisions. Apples & Oranges Arts, a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting humanity through storytelling, assumes no liability for actions taken based on program content. Use what you learn for good. Bad karma costs extra.