The Elmspring Accelerator, a seed-stage technology accelerator for real estate and tech startups, has added Anka Capital Management partner Bob Gillespie as executive director. Founded by Thomas Bretz and Adam Freeman, Elmspring is emerging as a premier destination for technology startups in real estate and related fields.
Gillespie brings over 25 years’ experience in consulting, technology, leadership and operations. He is sought after by professional organizations, universities and the media as a speaker on entrepreneurship, leadership and innovation. As executive director, Gillespie is responsible for the development and growth of the Elmspring fund. He will also oversee the acquisition and development of top technology startups, who are increasingly in demand by tech accelerators and venture capital firms around the nation. Companies launched in the Elmspring accelerator have included College Annex, a search service for college campus rentals; HerbFront, the nation’s only verified legal cannabis property listing platform; and Peer Realty, the premier real estate crowdfunding platform.
Elmspring co-founder, Thomas Bretz, commented:
“Bob brings a new set of skills and perspective to elmspring that will continue to push our growth as a premier tech accelerator. While the accelerator was born out of the needs of the real estate sector and investor communities, Bob helps connect those needs to emerging trends in technology, where he is a proven leader.”
The Elmspring accelerator program, poised to begin session 3.0, provides startups with seed capital, mentorship, office space at Chicago’s 1871, access to its partnering businesses, such as Century 21 Affiliated, Waterton Associates and Harrison Street, and the opportunity to demonstrate products for investors during a Demo Day event held at the culmination of the 3-month program.
Bretz added:
“Our goal is to recruit the best and brightest startups from around the country and help develop their ideas into game-changing companies. The best entrepreneurs are looking for more than just money and connections. What Bob brings to the table is proven mentorship that will help set our startups—and our accelerator—apart.”