About
The Launchpad for Deep Tech Pioneers Deep tech founders face a unique challenge: the "deadlock" where funding is needed to prove technology, but technology must be proven to secure funding. Founders School is a pre-accelerator designed specifically to break that cycle. We empower underrepresented and overlooked founders with the capital-readiness, narrative-building, and ecosystem access needed to scale groundbreaking innovations.
More than just a program, we are a gateway to the MassVentures ecosystem, preparing you to win competitive grants, join world-class accelerators, and navigate the path toward commercialization and growth.
Who's Eligible?
We are looking for the next generation of Deep Tech leaders who are building the future in Massachusetts.
Deep Tech Innovators: You are building a venture rooted in substantial scientific or engineering breakthroughs (e.g., Biotech, Robotics, AI, Quantum, Climatetech).
Underrepresented Founders: We prioritize founders who have been traditionally underfunded by the venture capital ecosystem, including women, founders of color, and those from diverse backgrounds.
Massachusetts-Centric: You are currently based in the Commonwealth or are committed to building and growing your business and team here.
Ready for Inflection: You have moved past the initial idea phase and are ready to prepare for formal investment, major grant applications, or commercial spinouts.
How It Works
Founders School is built on two high-impact pillars that run concurrently to accelerate your venture’s maturity:
1. The Venture Curriculum A series of expert-led, interactive sessions designed to move your company toward its next major milestone—whether that is institutional funding, commercialization, or spinning out of a research environment.
Intro / Intake: Defining the goals, milestones, and venture framing that will anchor your time in the program.
The Chicken and The Egg: Tactical strategies for overcoming the funding/technology deadlock.
Building Your Roadmap: Mastering OKRs and milestone planning—defining success.
The Business of Your Business: Crafting a robust business model and revenue strategy.
Funding Strategy: Navigating Non-Dilutive (SBIR, STTR, Catalyst) vs. Dilutive capital.
From Lab to Launch: Navigating IP licensing and the mechanics of spinning tech out of academia.
The GTM Engine: Effective selling principles and building a product-to-pipeline enterprise strategy.
Market & Customer Validation: Moving from customer discovery to true product-market fit.
AI for New Ventures: Utilizing AI tools to lean out operations and accelerate early-stage workflows.
Ownership & Governance: Navigating cap tables, equity distribution, and the impact of dilution.
Legal & IP Foundations: Setting the groundwork for your entity and intellectual property strategy.
Team & Advisory: Strategies for building high-performing teams and recruiting top advisors.
Ecosystem & Investor Readiness: Perfecting your narrative to engage partners and investors.
2. Individualized Coaching Theory meets reality in our 1-on-1 coaching tracks. We provide hands-on, individualized support tailored to your venture's specific bottlenecks. Whether you are refining your messaging for a high-stakes pitch or building a curated list of target investors for an initial round, our mentors work with you to solve your immediate strategic needs.
Get Connected
May 18 - Screening Application opens for Cohort #4
June 3 - Info Session 12-1pm ET (Register)
June 25 - Founders & Funders Event (Request an invitation)
In the Spotlight
MassVentures Launches Founders School to Support Underrepresented Deep Tech Entrepreneurs
MassVentures Announces Members of the Inaugural Founders School
Better Input = Better Outcomes: How Founders School Prepares the Founders Worth Backing
Navigating Today’s Funding Climate: Why Preparation Isn’t Optional
Partners and Sponsors
