The Future Founders Fellowship is a prestigious, year-long, equity-free accelerator program designed for young entrepreneurs across the United States. Hosted by Future Founders, a private nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurial growth among youth and young adults, this program targets startup founders between the ages of 18 and 30 who hold equity and play a key decision-making role within their companies. The program seeks individuals who are already generating revenue or preparing to do so, emphasizing personal and leadership development alongside business growth.
This Fellowship is structured as a hybrid experience, primarily virtual with occasional in-person retreats in Chicago, Illinois. It is industry-agnostic, welcoming applicants from any business sector. The program provides access to a robust peer network, mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs, professional development resources, and exclusive opportunities through other Future Founders initiatives. Fellows also gain eligibility for post-program support through the Alumni Accelerator, available for up to three years after their Fellowship year.
Applications for the 2026 Fellowship cohort are currently open, with priority consideration given to those who apply by December 10, 2025, at 11:59 PM Central Time. There is no cost to apply or participate in the program, and Future Founders does not take equity in participating companies. Applicants must be U.S. residents; however, there is no requirement to reside in or relocate to Chicago, given the program’s virtual structure.
To apply, candidates must complete an online application detailing their entrepreneurial background, company structure, and business goals. Selection is based on entrepreneurial commitment, leadership potential, and alignment with the program’s focus on growth-stage development. While school enrollment is not required, applicants must demonstrate an active role in advancing their startup.
Selected fellows will benefit from regular accountability check-ins, entrepreneurship retreats known as Founders Weekends, and continued access to the Future Founders network. The program prioritizes inclusivity and aims to create a national community of young entrepreneurs who support one another in their journeys to scale impactful businesses. Past participants have collectively created nearly 2,000 jobs, raised significant capital, and generated hundreds of millions in revenue, underscoring the Fellowship’s role as a launchpad for rising entrepreneurial leaders.
