Final Call: Silicon Valley AI Program Closes June 23.

Build a Fundable, Global Startup in Pittsburgh

The Founder Institute is the world’s most proven network to turn ideas into fundable startups, and startups into global businesses.

See other FI Chapters
In-Person
Program Dates
Feb 21, 2023 May 30, 2023
Deadline
Feb 21, 2023
Entrance Fee
$699
zoom bg Image

The Core Experience

You don't have to do it alone. Alongside other like-minded entrepreneurs, you will build your business in a structured, proven process.

Critical Support Network

Join an Equity Collective of helpful startup mentors and founders that are invested in your success.
Get access to a lifetime of support programs and partners that far exceeds any comparable program.

Structured Methodology

Know what to work on, and when, with our proven business-building sprints and structured process.
Build a company with impact by leveraging the world's largest network of startup founders and mentors.

Challenging Process

Less than 40% of Founders make it through the program because we challenge you every step of the way.
Get fast-tracked to our Funding Lab program and Virtual Demo Days, giving you the best chance to get funding.

Session Calendar

Below are the dates for the upcoming program

Orientation
Feb 21, 2023
06:00pm EST
Vision & Mission
Feb 28, 2023
06:00pm EST
Customer Development Sprint
Mar 07, 2023
06:00pm EST
View Full curriculum

Featured Grad

FI Grad Company

From our Silicon Valley chapter, Udemy is the global leader in online learning, with nearly 200,000 courses. The company went public on the NASDAQ in October 2021, raising $421 million.

FI Grad

The real question is: can the Founder Institute be game-changing for your business? The answer is yes. Without FI, Udemy may have never raised any money.

Gagan Biyani
/
Udemy (IPO, 2021)

FI Pittsburgh Mentors

Build a business efficiently through video conferences, office hours, and material reviews from a roster of top startup mentors.

Richard Image

Richard Longo

Interim Director & Business Consultant @ Duquesne University/School of Business Small Business Development Center
Tina Image

Tina Goodman

Senior Corporate Recruiter @ Lucas Systems
Marc Image

Marc Brown

Principal @ ABR Ventures
Mark Image

Mark Adkins

Founder & President @ Smart Hammer Innovation
Cole Image

Cole Wolfson

Senior Program Manager @ AlphaLab Gear
Rich Image

Rich Lunak

President & CEO @ Innovation Works

FI Partners

Get special deals and support worth over $3 million from top support organizations and partners.

Connect with us

Have any questions?

Apply

or Apply with
Already Have an Account?

The Founder Institute is the world’s most proven network to turn ideas into fundable startups, and startups into global businesses. Since 2009, our AI-native company-building programs have helped over 9,000 entrepreneurs raise over 2BN in funding. Based in Silicon Valley and with chapters across 100 countries, our mission is to empower communities of talented and motivated people to build impactful technology companies worldwide.


Copyright © 2026, Founder Institute, Inc. All Rights Reserved