Find and Test-Drive a Co-Founder

FI Bootcamps are short programs designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs with a specific topic or aspect of building their startup, such as finding a co-founder, vibe coding or idea validation. The FI Core program is a 14-week long, comprehensive startup accelerator that guides founders through the process of building a fundable, global and enduring business. FI Core Program Alumni get access to a global mentor and investor network, a suite of additional accelerator programs for free, and much more. In addition, all participants of FI Core programs also get free access to FI Bootcamps.

No, a startup idea is not required to join the bootcamp. Some participants enroll in the bootcamp with an existing idea or project and are looking for a co-founder. If you don't have your own startup or an idea, you will be matched with founders who are looking for co-founder for their startup.

The bootcamp includes 5 interactive online sessions with mentor presentations, followed by structured networking in both group and 1-on-1 settings. The real value of this bootcamp lies in the live networking, where you'll be matched with potential co-founders and engage in meaningful interactions to find the ideal partner who complements your skills. All session presentations will be recorded and available for later viewing. While you can technically skip a session and watch the recording, we highly recommend attending live to fully engage - ask questions, receive feedback from the mentors, and network with potential co-founders until you find your match.

Yes — all bootcamp sessions will be recorded and you’ll be able to watch them anytime at your convenience.

The bootcamp requires approximately 25-30 hours over 5 weeks. In Weeks 1 and 2, you'll spend 2 hours per session in 4 live mentor-led sessions, followed by networking activities to connect with potential co-founders through various formats (group networking tables, 1-on-1 speed dating meetings, in-depth interviews, etc.). After each session, you'll allocate 2-3 hours for individual work, following FI's methodology to identify the best co-founder fit in structured sprints. During Weeks 3 and 4 (the Test Project weeks), you and your co-founder match will dedicate 10-20 hours to collaborate and organize an event together. Finally, Week 5 will be a wrap-up session, providing time to evaluate the outcomes of the Co-Founder Bootcamp and reflect on your co-founder journey.

Yes, every session you will meet an instructor who will give a presentation and will be there to answer questions and provide guidance and feedback.

The weekly bootcamp Sprints are self-serve and you have to keep yourself (and your potential co-founder match) accountable to complete them on time to make progress. You will be able to ask questions and get help from our instructors during the sessions. The FI Bootcamp team is there to support you with any questions and challenges you might have during the bootcamp.

You have to complete a brief application, take the Entrepreneur DNA Assessment and pay the entrance fee. In the application, you will answer a few questions about your background and your startup or idea (if you have one). Based on this information and insights from your Entrepreneur DNA, you will be matched with co-founders that are a potential fit.

Once the entrance fee is paid, participants are automatically enrolled in the bootcamp, and the fee is non-refundable. This policy is designed to encourage founders to take the leap and begin their startup journey. By making this commitment, participants overcome procrastination and take a crucial step toward building their business.

Please email any questions to bootcamps(at)fi.co with an Email Subject: [Co-Founder Bootcamp Question]