Arbol Joins Techstars Workforce Development Accelerator: A Launch NY Portfolio Company

Arbol, a growing education technology startup based in Buffalo, New York, has been selected to join the 2025 cohort of the highly regarded Techstars Workforce Development Accelerator. Launch NY Portfolio Company, Arbol, is one of only 12 startups from around the globe chosen to participate in this competitive program focused on transforming the future of work, education, and financial wellness.

As part of Techstars, Arbol will gain access to top-tier mentorship, an expansive investor network, and strategic guidance from leaders across tech and venture capital. This milestone marks a major leap forward in the company’s mission to make higher education more accessible and sustainable for students and institutions alike.

Arbol operates as a B2B SaaS platform that helps colleges and universities improve student retention through personalized financial wellness tools. By equipping students with the knowledge and support to manage their financial journeys, Arbol enables institutions to reduce dropout rates and improve long-term academic outcomes. Since launching its full platform in Spring 2024, the company has partnered with nine colleges, from large public universities to smaller private campuses, and has already raised nearly $1 million in private capital.

As a Launch NY Portfolio Company, Arbol has benefited from early-stage funding, mentorship, and ecosystem connections that helped fuel its growth. Launch NY, a nonprofit venture development organization and Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), has invested in over 100 startups across Upstate New York. Arbol stands out for its innovative approach to tackling systemic challenges in higher education and workforce development.

Participation in Techstars will position Arbol to scale nationally and expand its impact within the edtech and workforce innovation space. With strong backing from both Launch NY and Techstars, the company is well-equipped to help reshape how colleges support their students—financially and academically.

Interested in joining or supporting startups like Arbol?
Entrepreneurs working on high-growth ventures can apply to Launch NY’s programs to access funding and mentorship. Accredited investors looking to connect with promising early-stage companies are encouraged to contact Jeanne Ernst at jernst@launchny.org.

To learn more about Launch NY’s mission and how it’s advancing innovation across the region, visit the official website.