In July 2012, I launched Seed-DB, a database of seed accelerators around the world and the companies in which they invested. I had originally started compiling the data in Google spreadsheets when I was writing my MBA thesis, and wanted to quantify the nascent accelerator ecosystem. Over time I kept getting feedback that the data was valuable to people, and decided to launch a standalone webapp to make it easier to access.
Building Seed-DB was a very meaningful milestone in my life. Building a webapp by myself was a fun challenge, and proved I could take an idea and implement it. (I have training in aerospace and nuclear engineering; not computer/software engineering, but taught myself how.) Over time, Seed-DB became an important resource for founders, accelerators, and others looking to understand the ecosystem. I’m proud to say that Seed-DB data was the source for infographics in the Economist and was cited in the New York Times and Techcrunch! (It also led to two different jobs.)
But everything must end, and it’s time for me to shut down Seed-DB. I haven’t had the time to update the data in a few years, even for the most high-profile accelerators. Additionally, the infrastructure behind the site needs a total overhaul, which I just don’t have the time or heart to do anymore. Finally, the seed accelerator ecosystem is just much more known – warts and all. The site isn’t as valuable or insightful as it was when it launched.
Thank you to everyone who’s given me feedback or who’s shared data with me – from accelerators to investors and founders themselves. I also owe a huge thank you to Crunchbase who gave me API access for many years to get the funding data that appeared on Seed-DB. Thank you to everyone for your support.
Jed Christiansen 