As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into business operations, startups are developing specialized technologies to help organizations manage data, automate workflows, and secure their systems.
Two women-led companies are among the participants in the latest cohort of NetApp Excellerator, a corporate startup acceleration program.
Cogover and QUIPU AI were selected alongside LightSprint AI, Wald.ai, and Lasso Security for the program’s 15th cohort, according to reporting published October 16.
The five companies are developing technologies related to enterprise artificial intelligence, software engineering, cybersecurity, and data infrastructure.
Supporting women-led innovation
Cogover develops technology designed to automate business processes through low-code and no-code tools.
QUIPU AI focuses on enterprise knowledge intelligence, helping organizations transform information into contextual data for AI applications.
Both companies are also participating in NetApp’s ExcellerateHER initiative, which supports women-founded and women-led startups.
The initiative emphasizes mentorship, technical guidance, and access to professional networks.
Beyond traditional startup funding
Accelerators are often associated with financial investment.
However, corporate programs can provide other valuable resources.
These may include access to technical expertise, enterprise infrastructure, product-development support, and opportunities to work with potential customers.
NetApp’s latest cohort will participate in a six-month program designed to support the development of enterprise-ready technology.
Participating companies may also explore proof-of-concept opportunities with NetApp.
These potential engagements should not be confused with guaranteed commercial contracts.
Why this matters for women in STEM
Building a technology company requires more than developing a promising product.
Founders must validate customer demand, establish partnerships, navigate technical challenges, and develop sustainable business models.
Corporate accelerators can help address some of those challenges.
For women founders, access to experienced mentors and enterprise networks may be particularly valuable when entering competitive technology markets.
Looking ahead
The selection of Cogover and QUIPU AI illustrates the growing range of AI applications being developed by women-led businesses.
Their participation does not guarantee future investment, contracts, or commercial success.
It does, however, provide an opportunity to gain expertise and develop relationships within the enterprise technology ecosystem.
For aspiring founders, the broader lesson is to evaluate accelerators not only by the amount of funding offered, but also by the quality of mentorship, technical support, and potential business connections.
Sources: October 16 cohort announcement coverage · Additional program reporting · NetApp’s official ExcellerateHER information
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