What We Do
We are redistributing economic and social power.
To support founders to become job creators and community leaders, all of Founder Forward’s programming falls into three categories:
Networking
Technical Assistance
Storytelling
Founder Forward takes a place-based approach to programming, focusing our efforts on non-dominant start-up markets.
To build an interconnected, multi-city, network of support for founders we are working to host our key programming in the Atlantic Region, including Newark, Philadelphia, and the Bronx as well as in the South Central Region, including Louisville, Houston, and Tulsa.
Founder Sprint Series
We connect and prepare founders for the next stage of their business growth by hosting a funded Sprint Series where over a six-week period they can solve an urgent business challenge.
Through Impact Partner sponsorship, founders receive $5,000 to $10,000 in unrestricted funding.
PitchProv
An innovative and fun approach to engaging founders and supporters. This event series aims to advance the conversation in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
AI Civic Studios
AI CIVIC Studio: Community Leadership for Responsible AI Adoption.
In partnership with AI BuildHER Academy and Rebrand Cities we’re equipping 250 business leaders with the skills to champion responsible AI adoption in their industry and in their community.
Coming Soon!
Community Hub
An online platform for founders to connect and access resources, and receive on-demand expert advising.
Coming Soon!
Storytelling Hub: A Narrative Change Project
Launching in Fall 2025!
A hub celebrating the unique journey of Black, Indigenous, and other diverse founders to serve as the blueprint for the next wave of entrepreneurs.
Alongside the stories of founders, the hub will feature insight on topics such as:
Finding funding in non-traditional markets
Reimagining urban business centers
The interconnectedness of workforce development and entrepreneurship