FoundersBoost is a six-week, part-time pre-accelerator program designed to prepare early-traction tech startups for the next stage of growth. Operating across more than 20 global chapters, the initiative equips founders with skills, mentorship, and industry connections to better position themselves for accelerators, investment, and revenue generation.
Programme Overview
- Format: Six-week program with workshops and one-on-one mentorship
- Cost & Equity: Free participation, no equity taken
- Cohort Size: Approximately eight startups selected per chapter
- Application Deadline: 10 September 2025
- Track Record:
- Over 600 pre-seed startups supported since 2017
- Alumni have raised more than $350M collectively
- Acceptance into accelerators, including Y Combinator, Techstars, and a16z
- FoundersBoost Fund offers select alumni investments of $25K–$75K
- Global Reach: 20+ programs worldwide with more than 2,000 founders in the community
Key Features for Founders
- Actionable Learning
- Weekly expert-led sessions on core startup topics
- Mentor-driven feedback addressing real challenges
- One-on-One Mentorship
- Personalized office hours with experienced mentors
- Global Network
- Access to potential investors, advisors, partners, and early hires
- Pitch Opportunities
- Showcase at Demo Day
- Invitations to a Global Investor Showcase
- Perks Package
- Startup tools and services valued at over $200K
- Partners include AWS, Stripe, Brex, HubSpot, Zendesk, and Google for Startups
Programme Curriculum by Week
- Week 1: Customer Development & Problem-Solution Fit
- Define customer profiles and refine product offerings using feedback and metrics
- Week 2: Pitch and Presentation Skills
- Learn techniques for effective pitching and audience engagement
- Week 3: Market Sizing
- Break down and analyze markets to identify opportunities and customer base
- Week 4: Building Products That Matter
- Gain insights into product-market fit and creating solutions users value
- Week 5: Fundraising Process & Techniques
- Prepare for investment and understand fundraising strategies
- Week 6: Venture Funding and Accelerators
- Explore the roles of accelerators, angel investors, and venture capital in scaling
Selection Criteria for Startups
FoundersBoost is selective, with criteria typically including:
- Startups raising less than $1M to date
- Tech-enabled, scalable products or services
- Launched or ready-to-launch Beta, MVP, or Version 1.0
- Evidence of early customer traction
- Small, coachable teams with a clear purpose
Commitment to Inclusivity
- 80% of participating startups are founded by underrepresented entrepreneurs
- Strong focus on improving ecosystem accessibility and representation
- Open to founders worldwide
Benefits for Participants
- Hands-on training and expert mentorship
- Direct exposure to accelerators and investors
- No program fees or equity dilution
- Community-driven support with a proven track record of success
FoundersBoost offers early-stage entrepreneurs a structured and supportive path to prepare for accelerators, investment, and long-term growth. With its global presence, alumni success stories, and emphasis on inclusivity, the program highlights opportunities for founders to sharpen their vision, connect with industry networks, and strengthen their startups’ foundations before taking the next big leap.