Founder.org

What is Founder.org?

Founder.org is an accelerator and investment fund established in 2012 and based in San Francisco, California.

They focus on empowering the next generation of innovators, particularly those from university backgrounds, who aim to create positive change through technology. Their investment thesis prioritizes early-stage funding for startups engaged in software, information technology, healthcare, and energy sectors.

Additionally, Founder.org invests in education technology and autonomous vehicle startups, reflecting a varied industry focus that intersects with transformative technological advancements. They provide initial funding of around $500,000, with the possibility for follow-on investments of $1 million or more.

Their program offers more than capital; it includes a nurturing environment for founders, providing access to mentorship from successful entrepreneurs, skill-building opportunities, and a supportive community for continuous learning and growth. Notably, Founder.org, now known as Yope, rebranded with a mission to support innovators concentrated on conscious innovation for people and the planet. They emphasize building a culture wherein technology serves humanity and environmental sustainability.

Yope's companies, such as ICEYE, Eko Health, and Dendra Systems, are examples of their portfolio's commitment to addressing global challenges through innovative solutions in earth observation, digital health, and ecosystem restoration. Yope's network includes seasoned mentors and an investor network that helps companies scale and succeed.

Moreover, they partner with universities to help visionary students achieve what initially seems impossible, and they actively foster conscious innovation through sponsorships and events like the South Summit Madrid.

What they say:

We are a program dedicated to fostering new businesses led by students.

What we look for: We invest in student entrepreneurs through our company-building program.