Expert DOJO is a prominent international startup accelerator headquartered in Santa Monica, California. Since its inception in 2014, the organization has been dedicated to empowering early-stage entrepreneurs by providing investment, mentorship, and a comprehensive suite of resources aimed at accelerating business growth.
Company Overview
Expert DOJO focuses on investing in pre-seed and seed-stage startups that demonstrate high growth potential. The accelerator is industry-agnostic, supporting a diverse range of technology companies, with a particular emphasis on minority and female-founded ventures. As of 2025, Expert DOJO has made over 300 investments, including more than 30 in Indian startups such as Bhive, Cloudworx, and Doqfy.
Financial Performance
The financial estimates for Expert DOJO vary across sources. According to Growjo, the company's estimated annual revenue is $16.3 million, with a revenue per employee of $130,000. The organization reportedly has 125 employees, reflecting a 32% growth in employee count over the past year. In contrast, Datanyze reports an annual revenue of $4.6 million and 18 employees. These discrepancies may arise from differences in data collection methods or reporting periods.
Investment Strategy and Portfolio
Expert DOJO's investment strategy is characterized by a commitment to diversity and global reach. The accelerator has invested in startups from over 30 countries, with a significant focus on underrepresented founders. In 2021, Expert DOJO launched an Africa program, committing up to $5 million to invest in early-stage African startups, with plans to make between 20 and 50 new investments. In April 2025, the accelerator announced plans to invest $45 million in 20 to 25 emerging Indian startups across sectors such as SaaS, fintech, B2B services, and artificial intelligence.
Competitive Landscape
In the competitive arena of startup accelerators, Expert DOJO distinguishes itself through its personalized mentorship approach and emphasis on diversity. Key competitors include:
- Y Combinator: A renowned accelerator based in Silicon Valley, known for its extensive network and successful alumni.
- Techstars: Operates globally, offering mentorship-driven accelerator programs across various industries.
- 500 Startups: A seed fund and accelerator program investing in early-stage companies with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
- Plug and Play: A global innovation platform connecting startups with corporate partners and investors across multiple industries.
Expert DOJO's unique selling proposition lies in its commitment to supporting underrepresented founders and providing tailored mentorship, setting it apart from these competitors.
Marketing and Outreach Strategies
Expert DOJO employs a multifaceted marketing strategy to engage with its target audience:
- Digital Marketing: Utilizes social media platforms, email marketing, content creation, and pay-per-click advertising to reach and engage potential startups and investors.
- Event-Driven Promotions: Hosts events such as demo days, pitch competitions, and networking mixers to showcase its services and connect with industry professionals.
- Partnerships: Collaborates with other accelerators, universities, and corporations to expand its network and provide additional resources to startups.
Customer Demographics
Expert DOJO targets a diverse group of entrepreneurs, including:
- Early-Stage Startups: Entrepreneurs in the ideation or seed stage seeking mentorship and resources.
- Tech Innovators: Founders developing cutting-edge technologies and solutions.
- Social Impact Entrepreneurs: Individuals focused on creating positive societal change.
- Diverse Founders: Underrepresented groups, including minority and female entrepreneurs.
- Growth-Oriented Businesses: Companies aiming to scale operations and increase market share.
Employee Insights
Employee reviews on Glassdoor provide a mixed perspective on working at Expert DOJO. The company has an overall rating of 3.6 out of 5 stars, with 59% of employees willing to recommend it to a friend. Positive feedback highlights a supportive team environment and valuable learning opportunities. However, some reviews mention concerns about compensation and workload.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Expert DOJO plans to:
- Expand Investments: Increase its portfolio to 500 investments by 2027.
- Incubate Internal Companies: Develop and incubate five internal companies to enhance equity returns.
- Global Expansion: Continue investing in startups worldwide, with a focus on regions like Africa and India.
In summary, Expert DOJO has established itself as a dynamic and inclusive accelerator, committed to fostering the growth of diverse startups through strategic investments and comprehensive support systems.
