Founder Institute is PSL’s Newest Accelerator Partner

Philly Startup Leaders (PSL) is thrilled about its new partnership with Founder Institute, a renowned global pre-seed startup accelerator. This strategic collaboration aims to empower aspiring entrepreneurs in the Philadelphia region, providing them with invaluable resources and support to launch successful businesses. The PSL x FI Accelerators continue upon the legacy of our #FoundedInPhilly accelerators, which PSL has run since 2014, with value-adding reach and expertise.

As PSL explores new ways to support more founders at all stages of growth, what excited PSL most about a partnership with Founder Institute was their program’s expansive global network, respected community of top mentors, established best practices, and ongoing investor-readiness support when founders are ready to pitch.  In challenging capital environments, strong fundamentals are a core differentiator between high growth startups which survive and thrive, and those which unfortunately don’t get to viability.

One thing PSL and FI bonded over early in the partnership was the fact that there is so much success brewing in Philly but unless you’re plugged into the ecosystem, it’s possible to miss! We want to call out that 90% of FI’s mentors are Philadelphia-local so this program is truly ‘Founded in Philly’.

For those interested in joining the Founder Institute's upcoming cohort, Philly Startup Leaders is excited to offer one Fellowship that will cover 100% of your program fee. PSL loves to make a warm recommendation, so if you apply, please let us know so we can put in a good word! 

For those interested in the next Founder Institute Cohort kicking off on September 27th, please apply to the cohort fi.co/join/PSL2023 and then email engage@phillystartupleaders.org to express your interest.

About our partner

Founder Institute is the world’s largest pre-seed startup accelerator program and operates in over 200 cities across the globe. With its extensive network of mentors, investors, and alumni, Founder Institute has established itself as a leading platform for early-stage startups. Their mission is to help entrepreneurs build enduring companies by offering a structured curriculum, expert guidance, and access to a vast entrepreneurial network.

FI Keystone Chapter, Philadelphia & Delaware Valley: led by experienced startup advisors and leaders from the Philadelphia region. The Keystone Chapter provides founders and entrepreneurs support, guidance, and access to top mentors and leaders in the community and from around the world to help you establish a successful startup.

Applications are now open for Founder Institute Keystone’s next 16-week cohort, which starts September 27th and will graduate on February 7, 2024. Aspiring founders will have the chance to learn from experienced industry professionals and receive hands-on training to refine their businesses. There is a track for both idea-stage and growth-stage companies. Additionally, participants will gain access to a global network of successful entrepreneurs and potential investors, allowing them to establish valuable lifetime connections.

Throughout the program, Founder Institute will cover a wide range of topics essential for startup success, including business strategy, customer development, fundraising, and growth hacking. By the end of the cohort, participants will have developed a viable business plan and honed their pitching skills, preparing them to confidently present their ideas to potential investors.

The partnership between Philly Startup Leaders and Founder Institute presents an incredible opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs in the Philadelphia region. By joining forces, PSL and Founder Institute aim to create a thriving ecosystem that supports the growth and success of local startups. Whether you have a groundbreaking idea or are looking to further develop your existing startup, the Founder Institute's upcoming cohort is a chance to gain valuable knowledge, mentorship, and connections.

Don't miss this opportunity to take your entrepreneurial journey to new heights.

For those interested in discounted admission to the next Founder Institute Cohort, please email engage@phillystartupleaders.org  to express your interest before applying.