Emerging Founder Residency 2026

About

A year-long residency program designed for first-time founders, offering substantial early-stage investment, mentorship, and a comprehensive curriculum focused on essential entrepreneurial skills. Participants will engage in weekly sessions, collaborate with major corporations, and develop their business strategies while working from a dedicated space in Cincinnati.

Benefits

• 💰Financial Support
  $300,000 in early-stage investment
• 🎓Mentorship Program
  Access to mentorship and major corporations
• 📚Curriculum Access
  Curriculum includes weekly sessions, lunch-and-learns, and outside speakers
• 📈Skill Development
  Focus on forecast modeling, fundraising, customer profile development, go-to-market strategy, and using AI
• 🏢Office Space
  Opportunity to work out of Union Hall in Over-the-Rhine

Eligibility Criteria

• First-time founders
• Technically skilled individuals
• Founders working before product validation and before a funding round
• Must relocate to Cincinnati for the program
• Commitment to building full-time during the residency

Participation Commitments

• Full-time commitment for the duration of the program
• Relocation to Cincinnati required
• Participation in weekly sessions and events

Target Sector

All sectors

Target Location

Cincinnati, Ohio, USA