AI Accelerator Lead (AI)

TL;DR

AI Accelerator Lead (AI): Owning the Vercel AI Accelerator end to end to support pre-seed and idea-stage AI founders with an accent on strategy, program lifecycle, and founder engagement. Focus on designing repeatable cohorts, scaling application systems, and bridging the gap between early ideas and production-ready companies.

Location: United States (San Francisco base pay mentioned)

Salary: $114,000 – $172,000

Company

Vercel is the agentic infrastructure company behind Next.js, v0, and AI SDK, enabling developers to ship AI-native applications with speed and security.

What you will do

• Own the AI Accelerator strategy, roadmap, and operating model to run multiple high-quality cohorts per year.
• Design and execute a repeatable program for pre-seed and idea-stage AI founders.
• Manage the full cohort lifecycle, including applications, selection, onboarding, and Demo Day.
• Build scalable systems for application review, founder communications, and content production.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Product, Marketing, DevRel, and Engineering teams to enhance the founder experience.
• Develop strategic relationships with VCs, accelerators, and AI ecosystem partners.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in startup programs, accelerators, ecosystem, or venture capital.
• Proven track record of owning complex programs end-to-end from strategy through execution.
• Deep understanding of pre-seed, idea-stage, or technical founders building from 0 to 1.
• Strong interest in AI-native startups and modern developer infrastructure.
• Ability to build high-quality community experiences and operational systems.
• Strong editorial and storytelling instincts to identify and amplify compelling founder stories.

Nice to have

• Experience running a venture-backed startup program, fellowship, or founder community.
• Background as a founder, early startup employee, or investor.
• Familiarity with Vercel, Next.js, v0, AI SDK, or tools like Cursor and Claude Code.
• Experience producing founder-facing events, workshops, or demo days.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive compensation package including equity.
• Inclusive healthcare package.
• Professional growth through mentorship and networking events.
• Flexible time off.
• WFH budget and necessary hardware gear.