Program
SEED Lab is Caravanserai’s signature 8-month pre-accelerator, delivered in partnership with US Bank and UCR Extension, designed to empower a new generation of social entrepreneurs who are reimagining the future of their communities. Through a transformative blend of training, mentorship, and capital access, SEED Lab equips early-stage changemakers with the tools they need to build sustainable, mission-driven ventures that create lasting social impact.
2026-27 Cohort
Edward Brantley
Capacity Impact Builders
James Coats
Lift Our Voices Education
Tabitha Davies
Esperanza’s Sanctuary
Andrea Garcia
TERRA NATIVA
Tobias Kim
Point Source Productions
Jazlynn Miranda
SeedLink Letters
Will Pierce
Tenth Light Digital
Fei Ihedinmadichima L. Wade
CalBucha
Miriam Wiegel
Copper Dog Farms
Maria Martinez
Firme Coding
Elizabeth Repesa
Canyon Co Learn
Alejandra Diaz
Rancho La Esperanza
2025-26 Cohort
Audience Vote Winner
Xochitl Alejo
7 Lucky Farms
Cindy & Casey Ball
Desert Empire Filmmaker Foundation
Christen Irving
Irving Media Consultants
Yesenia Garcia
Ecological Rites
Valli Bhavireddy
Sandlight Studios
Rico R Guerrero
In the Name of Hemp
Veronica Zambrano
Handcrafted Jerky Co.
Lisa Botts
The Sukha Life
Huyen Nguyen
Say Huyen Catering
John Craig
Hart’s Worm Farm Cooperative
Applications for the 2026-27 cohort are closed. Here is what SEED Lab includes for each fellow.
Eligibility
We are looking for emerging California-based entrepreneurs and ventures that are:
In the pilot or proof-of-concept phase of their entrepreneurial journey
Mission-driven, with a clear commitment to community impact and equity
Innovative, offering fresh solutions to long-standing challenges
Early traction-focused, already engaging with potential customers or beneficiaries
Ready to grow, personally and professionally, in a dynamic and supportive environment
California based
If you’re building a business that tackles a social or environmental challenge—and you’re doing it with heart, courage, and purpose—we want to hear from you.
Tuition
The full program cost is $8,500. Thanks to the support of our partners and donors, full scholarships are available for all admitted fellows. No one should be held back by financial barriers.
What Fellows Receive
As a SEED Lab Fellow, you’ll take part in a comprehensive program valued at over $15,000, including:
90+ Hours of Cohort-Based Learning
Interactive virtual and in-person workshops designed around your unique stage of developmentPersonalized One-on-One Mentorship
Direct support from seasoned entrepreneurs, industry experts, and impact leaders. This support is offered by our Caravan SBDC.UC Riverside Extension Certification
9 professional credits and a recognized certificate in social entrepreneurshipAccess to Capital Opportunities
Access to potential funding, including micro-grants, investments, and in-kind resources. Eligibility requirements apply.A Lifelong Network
Join a vibrant community of innovators, mentors, funders, and ecosystem builders who believe in your mission
Offered in Partnership with
This program is also supported by Caravan SBDC, part of the larger OCIESBDC network
Connect with us
(760) 537-6442
2150 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, #3, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 2486, Palm Springs, CA 92263
EIN: 81-2497638
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