NYCEDC Founder Fellowship

The NYCEDC Founder Fellowship is an accelerator program designed to improve access to capital, networks, and mentorship for underrepresented founders in New York City. The program specifically targets BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and female founders building tech-enabled companies, providing dilutive and non-dilutive capital, mentorship, and access to the startup ecosystem.

The NYCEDC Founder Fellowship aims to eliminate barriers for underrepresented founders by increasing access to capital and expanding inclusivity within the NYC tech ecosystem. The program focuses on supporting BIPOC and female founders, fostering a diverse entrepreneurial landscape.

Applicants should clearly articulate their founder story and mission, demonstrate the market opportunity for their startup, and be prepared to showcase a demo or prototype if available.

At least one founder must reside in New York City, and teams can have up to two founders. The startups must be tech or tech-enabled and show growth potential in the NYC market, with a strong preference for BIPOC and female founders.

To apply, founders must complete an online application form, including their story, mission statement, company description, and market opportunity. A demo or prototype is encouraged if available. The selection process includes due diligence with investment partners.

Participants receive mentorship, access to a network of investors and advisors, legal and compliance support, financial planning guidance, and resources for product development and go-to-market strategies.

Applications are open through December 31, 2025. Selected startup teams will be announced in February 2026, with the fellowship commencing in March 2026 for a 12+ week intensive program.

The fourth cohort selected 75 early-stage startups, with significant capital deployed to diverse founders and multiple startups graduating and closing seed rounds. The alumni network continues to grow with successful exits.