Schedule

This is where it all begins. During Orientation, we will review the Founder Institute program structure, curriculum, tools, and requirements in detail. In addition, you will identify mentors that can help you get the most out of the program, meet the other founders in your cohort, and learn more about their ideas and skillsets. Assignments for this session include creating a plan to complete the program, watching recommended Founder Institute training videos, and more.

The Mentor Idea Review is the first major test in the Founder Institute Program. During this session, every founder presents a three minute pitch to a large number of entrepreneur and CEO mentors for evaluation and feedback. These mentors will grade you on many criteria, such as the validity and market potential of your ideas, and your understanding of your target customer. After the session, you will incorporate their feedback into your planning, begin to set up your company and marketing infrastructure, and more.

Every company needs capital to grow, and it can come from revenue or outside sources like investors. This finance heavy session will educate you on the different strategies, structures, and tactics for getting investment, as well as how to bootstrap and manage your company cash flow to profitability. After the session, you will consult with your Directors and Advisors to form a plan to capitalize your company, and take various steps depending on the strategy you choose.

Most people that enter the program do not make it to Graduation, because the Founder Institute curriculum is very demanding. However, the select few that Graduate have achieved several years of progress on their startup in just a few months. We typically celebrate the Graduating class with a small event attended by family members, mentors, investors, and more. Afterwards, Graduates gain access to the Founder Institute network, tools, and ongoing resources… and the real work of building and growing an enduring company begins!