NEC X Elev X Ignite Batch 17

NEC X Elev X Ignite Batch 17 is a tech incubator for early stage B2B founders in North America. The application page describes three phases, with equity free support at first, then a $20,000 SAFE, then up to $200,000. The address on the page is 459 Hamilton Ave, Suite 306, Palo Alto.

Phase 1, Business Design, starts on 1 February 2027, runs for four weeks online, and takes about 30 teams. It does not take equity and does not provide direct funding. Phase 2, Demand Validation, starts on 22 March 2027, runs for eight weeks, and takes 6 to 10 teams. It is hybrid, with in person time in the San Francisco Bay Area, and the listed investment is $20,000. Phase 3, Value Delivery, starts on 1 June 2027 and continues until the team is ready to raise. It takes 1 to 3 teams, and the listed investment is up to $200,000.

The page looks for founders who can build and test a prototype, in code, with no code tools, or as a functional demo. You must be a US entity before Phase 2. Solo founders can apply. No revenue is required. Preferred areas named on the page include AI automation, agentic commerce, fintech, physical AI and robotics, digital health, and public safety.

Applications are open from 5 October 2026 to 11 December 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time, with rolling review. Webinars are on 4, 12, and 18 November and 2 December 2026. Pitch sessions run from 1 December 2026 to 15 January 2027. Acceptance notices go out on 22 January 2027. Apply on the Elev X Ignite Batch 17 page.

Quick answers

How much does it pay?

Up to $200K. It is an investment in exchange for equity.

When is the deadline?

The deadline is 11 December 2026.

Who can apply?

Early stage B2B founders in North America who can build and test a prototype. A US entity is required before Phase 2. Solo founders can apply. No revenue is required. It is limited to applicants in North America, CA, MX.

Is it online or in person?

Online and in person, in Palo Alto, United States.

How do I apply?

Through the official page at elev-x.secure-platform.com. The link is at the top of this page.

Does the first phase include cash?

No. Phase 1 is equity free and does not provide direct funding. Cash starts at Phase 2.

Can a solo founder apply?

Yes. Solo founders are welcome, and the page strongly encourages at least one collaborator.

Is revenue required?

No. The page says it is focused on early stage ideas, and traction is a bonus.