Our Program

Our program is founder-focused, proven, and ready to support your startup's journey. Twice a year, we train and support 6-10 early-stage startups and with support from our partners, give founders a $20,000 grant. Over 11 weeks, participants benefit from tailored mentorship, comprehensive education on scaling a startup, and a supportive cohort community. This is a unique opportunity to accelerate your growth. Applications will reopen in late Fall 2024.

$20,000 Non-Dilutive Funds

As a company in Lighthouse Labs, you'll receive a total $20,000 in non-dilutive funds via our partners in the form of a grant. These funds can be used in whatever way you need as you develop your business skills.

11-week Hybrid Program

Our program is filled with 11 weeks of proven programming and mentorship. Our program is a hybrid program, with the first and last week taking place in Richmond, VA and the other nine weeks happening virtually.

Access to Mentor Network

Each team is paired with a Lead Mentor and has access to over 100 subject-matter mentors along with office hours and hands-on support from legal advisors, accounting pros, branding experts, and more.

FAQs

Is Lighthouse Labs right for my startup?

Do I have to be based in Virginia to apply?

No, but your company must be based in the US, and you must attend the in-person portions in Richmond, Virginia during the first and last weeks of the program.

How do I know if my company is a good fit?

We seek early-stage, post-MVP companies with validated business models and the potential to scale. Ideal companies:

Are innovation-based and technology-led.
Show positive traction.
Have a validated business model and proven market need.
Can be from any industry, with a preference for healthcare and FinTech.
Are US-based, with a preference for Virginia-based companies.

Ideal founders:

Are full-time solo founders or co-founders.
Commit to active and consistent participation.
Show strong ethics, tenacity, and coachability.

Do I have to be in a specific industry?

No, we are industry-agnostic. We particularly value Virginia-based, healthcare-related, and FinTech companies.

Do I have to be a full-time founder?

Yes, we require at least one full-time founder on your team. Multiple founders can participate.

What if I’ve already participated in other accelerators or incubators?

We consider each situation individually. You cannot participate in another accelerator simultaneously.

What is Lighthouse’s commitment to underrepresented founders?

Over 65% of our founders are from traditionally underrepresented groups. We aim to support these founders, providing $20K non-dilutive funding to help level the playing field.

Why non-dilutive grants?

We provide non-dilutive grants to empower founders without taking equity, allowing them to retain full control and focus on growth.

What happens next? How do I apply?

Apply through F6S. The deadline for Spring 2025 will be announced soon.

Is there an advantage to applying early?

Yes, applying early gives our team more time to review your application thoroughly.

I’ve submitted an application…what happens now?

Once applications are closed, a panel of our staff, alumni, mentors and community members will review each application. Applications go through a couple of rounds, with the last round an online interview. You will be notified by our team if your application has been accepted or declined for the cohort. We’re a small team, but we promise we will get back to you!

What if I don’t get in?

Reapply for the next cycle if your company fits our requirements. We appreciate seeing your progress.

More about the program…

When is the Lighthouse Labs program?

We have Spring and Fall cohorts. The Spring cohort runs from early to mid-March through mid- to late-May, and the Fall cohort from late August to early November. Batch 17 (Fall 2024) runs from August 26 to November 8, 2024.

Are there restrictions on how I can use the money from Lighthouse?

No, you can use the funds as you see fit to advance yourself and your company.

What does the in-person portion of the cohort look like?

The in-person portion includes the first and last weeks of the program in Richmond, Virginia. You'll connect with mentors, the Lighthouse team, and fellow founders, and participate in networking events and Demo Day.

What kind of programming is offered?

Each week focuses on critical areas for startups, such as fundraising, marketing, and scaling. Experts provide engaging sessions, and we include one-on-one time with mentors and fun events.

What about travel and housing costs?

Founders are responsible for these costs during the in-person weeks, though many meals are covered. You can use Lighthouse funding to cover these expenses.

What is the time commitment of the cohort?

Plan for an average of 6 hours per week during virtual weeks and about 25-30 hours during the in-person weeks. Most programming occurs on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

What should I know about Richmond (and Virginia)?

Richmond is a vibrant, growing city with a rich cultural, historical, and recreational scene. It's business-friendly, affordable, and has a highly educated workforce.