Led by the Maryland-based private equity firm, Mauloa, it’s a first-of-its-kind accelerator program for middle market companies, where the winning company receives an investment offer of at least $10 million. While there is no cost to participate, qualifying companies must generate over $20M in annual revenue, produce over $3M in cash flow (not EBITDA), and be located within 100 miles of the Washington DC-area. Three companies will be accepted into the cost-free accelerator, where they will be shown how to strengthen their balance sheets and how to grow revenue through targeted marketing.
Is there ANY cost to apply and/or participate?
No, it’s completely free. In fact, one company will even receive an investment offer of at least $10M.
How many companies will be selected?
Three companies will be accepted, and at least one will receive an investment offer but all 3 could end up receiving offers.
When does it start, end and other important dates?
Announcement date: 5/12/25
Application deadline: 8/8/25
Program start date: 9/17/25
Program end date: 12/11/25
In which specific ways does Mauloa help companies in the accelerator program?
Working Capital Empowerment
Many growing companies encounter cash constraints caused by working capital. Accelerating growth without the financial foundation to support it will shrink cash flow and hinder long-term success. Solutions like lines of credit may offer only temporary relief and often come with limitations, such as restrictive covenants and personal guarantees.
This is where Mauloa steps in. Andrew Sachs, Founding Partner, has decades of experience in non-control investing and has partnered with over fifty businesses to help them overcome these growth challenges. Forged from his Georgetown & London School of Economics education and career at Morgan Stanley private equity, Andrew utilizes his analytical skills to work with owners to unlock their growth potential and maximize annual cash flow generation.
Marketing Architecture
Through improved marketing, Mauloa helps its portfolio companies increase revenue and cash flow. Led by Managing Partner Kai Sato, Mauloa teaches companies how to acquire target customers and increase customer word-of-mouth.
Mauloa uses a framework called Marketing Architecture, which Kai first created when he was the chief marketing officer (CMO) of Rubicon Resources, a family-owned company which was acquired for $107 million. He incorporated Marketing Architecture again with Crown Electrokinetics, a company that became publicly-traded on Nasdaq, during his tenure as Co-President & CMO. At this time, he also published the book Marketing Architecture. It has been successfully implemented by over 40 companies and while every company is unique, there are simple yet effective tactics that most businesses can leverage to better market themselves and realize untapped value.
What is the time commitment for companies accepted?
At least two hours per week for the 3-month program. The CEO and senior leaders must participate to whatever extent necessary.
Do meetings take place in-person?
Yes, at least 2 meetings will take place in-person at your company’s office. The first will be during the initial screening process after you apply to the accelerator and your company’s financial qualifications are verified. The second in-person meeting will be a kick off meeting after you’re accepted into the accelerator.
Does the accelerator have any partners?
Yes, Mauloa has strong relationships with prominent firms across legal, insurance, banking, accounting, and wealth management. Shulman Rogers will be the first partnership announced, the official legal sponsor of the Mauloa SMB Accelerator.
Are there any benefits after the accelerator ends?
All companies in the accelerator benefit from the increased exposure and specific value-add described above. However, any company in which Mauloa invests will not only receive capital but also the myriad ways in which we perpetually create value for our portfolio companies, for example:
Business development - We know a lot of people and open doors.
Culture strategy - More than any other factor, a company’s culture determines its success (or failure), and we know how to help companies strengthen and sustain their unique cultures.
AI/automation - We work closely with companies and investors at the leading edge of technology, which we use to help business owners streamline their operations.