Rough Draft Ventures Fellowship / GC Venture Fellows

Rough Draft Ventures is a student-run venture capital fund powered by General Catalyst, designed to support ambitious student founders and train the next generation of venture investors. Founded in 2013, it has evolved into one of the largest networks of student entrepreneurs and venture investors across North American universities. The program emphasizes hands-on experience and offers multiple fellowship tracks, including Community, Marketing, and Engineering Fellows, who engage in various venture capital activities and support portfolio companies.

Rough Draft Ventures aims to democratize venture capital by empowering university students to make investment decisions and support early-stage startups. The program focuses on fostering a community of ambitious student founders who are dedicated to creating lasting positive change.

null

The program is open to current students and recent graduates across North America who are interested in entrepreneurship and venture capital.

Students can apply for funding through the GC Venture Fellowship application link. The selection process includes submitting a resume, a written statement, and an interview.

Participants gain access to early capital, mentorship from experienced investors, and a network of peers and alumni, enhancing their entrepreneurial journey.

The program runs for 36 weeks with one cohort per year, allowing for part-time engagement alongside academic commitments.

Fellows and founders have successfully launched startups valued in the hundreds of millions, created their own venture funds, and secured positions at leading VC firms. Notable portfolio exits include Parade, and alumni have achieved significant capital raises from top-tier investors.