BC Business
The deadline is approaching for the Vancouver edition of the FoundersBoost pre-accelerator program, which takes place in 14 cities worldwide.
There are many reasons to start a business, including the promise of big opportunities in the tech sector. But identifying a problem and coming up with a solution isn’t enough for new entrepreneurs, who often find the journey to commercial success an uphill battle.
Fledgling local startups seeking direction and investment have something to look forward to as FoundersBoost Vancouver 2022 invites applications for its spring cohort. All early-stage tech companies based in B.C. are welcome to apply.
An international pre-accelerator that preps startups for capital, FoundersBoost offers mentorship and operational support to a select group. The program is free, takes no equity and works exclusively with pre-seed businesses. FoundersBoost is “a stepping-stone for future entrepreneurs to start their journey to build great companies,” co-founder and CEO Blake Caldwell said in a release.
The six-week program, offered in 14 cities worldwide, now takes place online only. Since it launched four years ago, FoundersBoost has had about 4,000 applications, with more than 365 participating startups raising a combined US$100 million in investment. Alumni have gone on to work with accelerators like Y Combinator, Techstars and 500 Startups.
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The prerequisites to enter include a detailed business model, a minimum viable product and market recognition. After helping pre-seeds define their mission and connecting them to industry experts, investors and resources to build traction, FoundersBoost finishes with a local Demo Day. Six weeks later, global investors have the chance to view online pitches over a two-day period.
“The benefit of FoundersBoost is that it brings a chapter to help pre-seed investment teams make the next big step in an under-supported stage to prepare them for accelerators, investment and, most importantly, revenue generation,” said co-founder Gene Murphy.
The deadline for FoundersBoost Vancouver applications is March 16. You can apply here.