The Founder Institute, the world’s most proven network to turn ideas into fundable startups, is excited to announce that we are now accepting applications for the Chicago program!
If you could use a structured process and a lifetime of support from Midwest's top investors and entrepreneurs to build a startup, then apply to the Chicago Founder Institute today.
Since 2009, our highly-structured accelerator programs have helped entrepreneurs at the earliest stages grow quickly, know what to do next, and make connections with the largest community of startup advisors.
To celebrate the launch, the Founder Institute will host several free online startup events in Midwest, where you can learn from top entrepreneurs:
Midwest Events:
- AI Startup Pitch Practice: Get Live Feedback From Mentors: 6:00pm, Oct 08, 2026 (America/Chicago): https://FI.co/e/405301
- How to Raise Money for Your AI Startup as a Solo Founder: 11:00am, Oct 15, 2026 (America/Chicago): https://FI.co/e/406098
Global or Regional Events:
- FI Alumni Panel: Meet Founders of High-Growth Startups (Q&A + Networking): 11:00am, Oct 06, 2026 (America/Chicago): https://FI.co/e/398730
- From Dreamer to Doer: Build the Founder Mindset: 11:00am, Oct 13, 2026 (America/Chicago): https://FI.co/e/399044
The Midwest program is led by some of the region's top startup leaders, including Jason Jacobsohn (Managing Partner).
In addition, some of Midwest's top investors, entrepreneurs, and CEOs will be participating in the program, providing them with expert feedback and evaluation. The list of startup mentors for the Midwest Founder Institute includes:
* AJ DeLeon * Abdellah Aouf * Adeo Ressi * Alex Gorsuch * Amit Bhanot * Aviv Shalgi * Ben Stacey * Bob Gillespie * Charles Kwon * Chris Foltz * Derick Jiwan * Franklin Kamnang Ngansop * Greg Jaros * Jeff Lyons * Joe Bezdek * John Dallas * Karim Djerboa * Marisa Bryce * Mark Phinick * Marshall Stanton * Michael Lamb * Mike Kritzman * Peter Tapling * Pinaki Saha * Rajesh Voddiraju * Stephen Meade * Ted Greene * Timothy Kelley * William Furlong * William Mortimore
- And many more to be announced.
Join us in Midwest to build a great company in 2023.
Apply to the Chicago Founder Institute today, or learn more at FI.co/overview.
