If you really want to understand what’s happening in HR right now, you have to show up.
The hallway conversations. The demos. The side chats that start with “what’s actually working for you?” That’s where you hear what’s coming next.
And lately, it’s all about how AI will shape hiring and employee management.
So when SHRM Labs announced it was cutting $200,000 checks to five HR tech startups building for the future of work, it caught my attention.
This isn’t a press release. It’s a signal.
Because the teams getting that backing aren’t just chasing hype. They’re solving real problems. The kind that shape how recruiters, People ops practitioners, and CHROs operate every day.
The WorkplaceTech Accelerator gives founders what they actually need:
Access to SHRM’s global network of HR execs and practitioners
A curated advisory council to test, validate, and scale faster
Stage time at SHRM’s biggest conferences in front of the people who actually buy the tools
Oh yeah, and a fat check.
It’s twelve weeks that can change the trajectory of your company.
They’re right. SHRM is an undeniable force. And the startups admitted into the cohort are building real tech that promotes better hiring and engagement for all employees.
Credibility in this space doesn’t come from your follower count in your founder led LinkedIn play. It comes from sitting across from a CHRO who’s been doing this for 20 years and convincing them you can make their life easier. And then having them take a board seat, write a check, and refer 5 enterprise CHROs or Heads of TA who will buy your product. That’s what this accelerator helps you do.
Applications for the 2026 WorkplaceTech Accelerator are closing. Get them in. Or email me for the intro. I’m not a venture scout on this. I’m here to help.
Why?
Because I’ve been on the road doing just that at conferences this year with founders and friends. And this is actually something they need.
How often do you hear someone tell their founder friend, “let me know what you need!” Well what they usually need is capital.
So here we are. I’ve already had 7 friends reach out directly for intros since I put the word out earlier this week. So here’s your chance. Cash is yours. Don’t sleep. (I certainly haven’t this conference season.)
And if you’re building something for the future of work, this is your shot to do it with the largest HR network in the world behind you.
Peace & People Ops,
Brando ✌️
