The Bridge Residency in San Francisco is a specialized initiative by Entrepreneur First (EF) designed to immerse early-career European talent in the world’s most prominent technology ecosystem. This eight-week residency serves as a high-intensity launchpad for recent graduates, providing them with the environment and resources necessary to transition from academic or early professional backgrounds into the startup landscape. By relocating selected individuals to Silicon Valley, the program aims to broaden their entrepreneurial horizons and connect them with the global standards of innovation and venture building.
Program Overview and Objectives
- Silicon Valley Immersion: The residency is hosted in San Francisco, offering participants direct exposure to the unique density of talent, capital, and mentorship found in the Bay Area.
- Duration: The program is structured as a concentrated eight-week experience, focusing on rapid personal and professional development within the startup sector.
- Foundational Networking: Participants are integrated into the broader Entrepreneur First network, facilitating connections with like-minded peers and potential future collaborators.
- Pre-Idea Focus: Similar to other EF initiatives, the residency is designed for individuals who have the ambition to build companies but may not yet have a team or a specific business concept.
Eligibility and Target Audience
- Educational Background: The program is exclusively available to young professionals and technologists who have graduated from their studies in 2023 or later.
- Geographic Focus: The residency specifically targets European graduates, serving as a "bridge" between the European talent pool and the San Francisco tech ecosystem.
- Candidate Profile: Selection is geared toward high-potential "outliers" who demonstrate exceptional technical ability, ambition, and a desire to solve large-scale problems through technology.
- Commitment: Applicants must be able to commit to the full eight-week duration of the residency in person in San Francisco.
Financial Support and Benefits
- Equity-Free Grant: Selected participants receive a $10,000 stipend to support their transition and exploration during the residency.
- Housing Support: The program typically provides or facilitates housing solutions for the duration of the stay in San Francisco to lower the barrier to entry for international participants.
- Resource Access: Founders in residence gain access to specialized workshops, networking events, and the strategic expertise of the Entrepreneur First team.
- Path to Further Funding: Successful completion of the residency can serve as a precursor to joining full-scale EF cohorts where teams can pitch for significant pre-seed investment.
Key Dates and Application Details
- Application Deadline: Interested candidates must submit their applications by January 10, 2026, to be considered for the upcoming cycle.
- Program Commencement: The Spring 2026 cohort is scheduled to begin its residency in April 2026.
- Location: The entirety of the eight-week program takes place on-site in San Francisco, California.
- Selection Process: Candidates typically undergo a competitive review process that evaluates their past achievements, technical "edge," and founder potential.
The Bridge Residency in San Francisco represents a unique opportunity for the next generation of European entrepreneurs to validate their ambitions in the heart of the global tech industry. By removing the financial and geographical hurdles associated with entering the Silicon Valley market, the program provides a clear pathway for exceptional graduates to begin their journey as founders. This initiative ensures that talented individuals have the support system required to transform their skills into globally significant ventures.