why not just choose a different time of the year to run your program? You wouldn't have to convince the top companies to choose Shotput in Atlanta over Y Combinator and Techstars (a battle which you'll lose until you develop brand). The reality is that there are enough entrepreneurs who desperately need money at all times of the year. These companies may not want to wait until the summer application process and could be convinced to do shotput instead.<p>There are some benefits of having a 8-10 week "accelerator" program. As you mentioned, there's the feeling of camaraderie between the startups but also its easier to line up speakers, have a Demo day, and get good office space when its a 10 week program.