Applications are currently open for the Foundry F26 Startup Accelerator, a student-run accelerator operated by ScottyLabs at Carnegie Mellon University. The program is designed for ambitious student founders building scalable, venture-oriented startups. It is intended for ventures that have progressed beyond the idea stage and are actively building, testing, validating, or generating revenue. Foundry is sector-agnostic and welcomes startups across areas such as software, hardware, healthcare, medical technology, and other technology-enabled businesses.
Founder and Venture Eligibility
• Applicants should be student founders who are actively building a startup and have progressed beyond the conceptual stage.
• Ventures should demonstrate meaningful progress through activities such as product development, testing, validation, customer engagement, early traction, or revenue generation.
• The program is geared toward startups with the potential to become scalable, venture-scale businesses.
• Founders are expected to make a substantial commitment to their startup, with approximately 30+ hours per week dedicated to building the venture.
• Selection is highly competitive, with Foundry indicating that only around seven teams will be admitted to the cohort.
Program Highlights
• Foundry takes 0% equity, allowing participating founders to retain full ownership of their companies.
• The accelerator provides an intensive startup-building environment focused on execution, validation, growth, and venture development.
• Participants gain access to a community of student entrepreneurs and a structured setting intended to help teams make meaningful progress during the program.
Eligible Startup Industries
• Foundry is industry-agnostic and considers startups from a broad range of sectors, including:
• Software
• Hardware
• Healthcare and medical technology
• Technology-enabled businesses
• Other scalable commercial ventures
• Selection is based primarily on the strength of the team, demonstrated progress, commitment, and potential for scalable growth rather than a specific industry focus.
Application Process and Deadline
• Application Review: Applications and interviews are conducted on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.
• Application Deadline: September 10, 2026.
• How to Apply: Eligible founders can submit an application through the official Foundry application platform.
The Foundry F26 Startup Accelerator offers student founders an opportunity to develop and scale an existing venture in a focused, zero-equity accelerator environment. With a small cohort of approximately seven teams, the program is highly selective and best suited to founders who have already demonstrated meaningful startup progress and are prepared to commit significant time to continued execution and growth.