NXT BLD and Bentley Systems Launch NXT Activate Accelerator to Back the Next Generation of AEC Software Innovators

Founding partners NXT BLD and infrastructure engineering software company Bentley Systems announced the launch of NXT Activate, a developer-focused accelerator for early-stage companies building transformative software for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) sectors.

The accelerator will back startups that are creating applications to solve the industry’s most critical challenges by breaking down data silos and unlocking more efficient workflows from design through operation.

The programme is uniquely designed to support startups, regardless of the technology they choose to build on. Whether a company is building on open standards, such as IFC or 3D Tiles, or leveraging proprietary platforms they are eligible for funding. This core principle ensures the accelerator supports the best new ideas in the industry, rather than limiting startups to a single vendor's technology.

Initially seeded by Bentley Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of Bentley Systems, NXT Activate will launch with a commitment of up to $3 million over a three-year term. This capital will be deployed annually across cohorts of six to eight startups, with the first cohort scheduled for autumn 2026. The consortium is designed to expand with the addition of future strategic sponsors and investment members.