What are Custom Fields?
Custom Fields allow administrators to define, collect, and manage structured data across the Accelerator App platform. They can be created once and reused across multiple areas such as profiles, applications, workflows, and reports.
Each Custom Field has:
- A field type (e.g. One Liner, Currency, Scale, Single Choice)
- An object type (User or Startup)
- Optional categories
- Visibility and access controls
Once created, the answers collected through Custom Fields are stored centrally and reused wherever that field is displayed.
Where Custom Fields Are Managed
Custom Fields are managed from a central location.
To access them:
- Click on the top left Menu icon
- Click on Custom Fields in the left side menu
From here, you can view, create, edit, and manage all Custom Fields across your workspace.
Custom Fields.png
Where Custom Fields Can Be Used
Custom Fields can be displayed and reused across multiple parts of the platform, including:
- User Profiles
- Startup Profiles
- Application Forms
- Review and Selection Rounds
- Program Management
- Reporting and Analytics
The same field can appear in multiple places without duplicating data.
Common Custom Fields Use Cases
1. Structuring Startup and User Profiles
Custom Fields are commonly used to standardize information collected on Startup Profiles and User Profiles.
Examples:
- Startup stage
- Industry or sector
- Team size
- Total Addressable Market
- Areas of expertise
Using structured field types improves consistency and makes profiles easier to search, filter, and analyze.
2. Customizing Application Forms
Custom Fields can be added to application forms to collect program-specific information.
Examples:
- Market size
- Revenue model
- Validation strategy
- Supporting documents
When applicants submit answers, the data is saved and can automatically populate their Startup Profile or Application record.
3. Supporting Eligibility and Validation
Custom Fields can be used to help determine whether an applicant or startup meets eligibility criteria.
Examples:
- Incorporated (Yes / No)
- Operating in a specific region
- Minimum revenue threshold
- Program-specific requirements
These fields can be referenced in workflows to ensure only qualified submissions move forward.
4. Improving Review and Selection Processes
Custom Fields can be surfaced during review rounds to support structured evaluation.
Examples:
- Scoring fields
- Self-evaluation scales
- Reviewer notes
- Readiness indicators
Using the same fields across reviewers improves consistency, fairness, and decision-making.
5. Segmenting and Filtering Data
Custom Fields enable filtering and segmentation across the platform.
Examples:
- Filter startups by sector or stage
- Identify mentors by expertise
- Group applicants by track or cohort
This is especially useful for cohort management, communications, and reporting.
6. Tracking Program Outcomes and Impact
Custom Fields can be used to track outcomes during and after a program.
Examples:
- Jobs created
- Funds raised
- Milestones achieved
- KPIs or impact metrics
Tracking this data over time supports program evaluation and stakeholder reporting.
7. Post-Acceptance and Internal-Only Data
Not all data needs to be collected during application. Custom Fields can be used for internal or post-acceptance information.
Examples:
- Assigned mentor
- Internal notes
- Program status
- Compliance tracking
Visibility restrictions can be applied so only selected roles can view or edit these fields.
Best Practices for Using Custom Fields
- Use structured field types instead of free text whenever possible
- Keep field labels clear and descriptive
- Avoid creating duplicate fields for the same data
- Apply visibility restrictions for sensitive or internal information
- Minimize required fields to reduce friction for users and startups
- Use categories to keep large sets of Custom Fields organized