HAX Deep Tech Accelerator

HAX (formerly HAXLR8R) is the world's first and most active pre-seed program specializing in hard tech and deep tech startups. Operated by SOSV, HAX has evolved from its founding in Shenzhen (2011) into a global network supporting founders tackling physics-based, chemistry-based, and materials challenges at industrial scale.

HAX focuses on supporting founders who are tackling significant challenges in hard tech and deep tech sectors. The program seeks startups with real-world prototypes and customer insights, emphasizing the importance of addressing industrial-scale, physics-based problems.

Applicants should ensure they have a solid prototype and clear customer insights before applying. A strong vision for innovation in hard tech is essential.

• Founders with initial prototype (not just CAD models)
• Demonstrated customer insight and traction
• Clear vision for hard tech innovation
• Companies addressing industrial-scale, physics-based problems
• Focus on plasma, critical minerals, climate infrastructure, robotics, advanced manufacturing, or chemistry
• Founders must be willing to relocate to Newark for 6-month residency

Founders must have an initial prototype, demonstrated customer insight, and a clear vision for hard tech innovation. They must be willing to relocate to Newark for a 6-month residency.

• $250K-$500K pre-seed investment from SOSV Fund V
• 6-month residency in 35,000 sq ft Newark facility with equipment
• On-staff engineering and design teams working alongside founders
• Access to materials science, electronics, and manufacturing expertise
• 257+ alumni network across multiple sectors
• Follow-on investment potential through SOSV
• Global network access (San Francisco, Shenzhen, Pune, Tokyo)

The program lasts for 6 months, during which participants engage in a residency at the Newark facility.

257+ companies have graduated from the program, with recent Newark cohorts creating 160+ jobs and generating over $60M in VC funding.