Get smarter about startups before you start one
The Emerging Founder School is designed for underestimated students to learn from the investment team at Hustle Fund and become a more prepared founder. It is a no-cost 8 week fellowship geared towards early-stage founders to validate their idea and get investor-ready.
First we asked ourselves - why do founders fail?
Current State
With Emerging Founder School
1. Founders make something people don't want
1. Help founders find better problems to solve
2. They run out of capital to sustain the business
2. Help founders position themselves to raise
3. They lack access to venture networks
3. Provide access to investor and founder communities
That’s where the Emerging Founder School comes in:
A two month program designed to help you:
Discover the right problem to solve
with guidance from experienced investors.
Discover the right problem to solve
with guidance from experienced investors.
Learn how to fundraise effectively by understanding what investors look for.
Gain access to an exclusive community of founders and investors for mentorship and support.
Local Events
Who Should Apply
Current undergraduate or graduate students in the U.S.
Underrepresented backgrounds in venture and tech.
Students with early ideas but limited access to capital or networks.
Proven hustlers who demonstrate grit, initiative, and the drive to succeed.
*We will make exceptions for applicants who are not students but are otherwise a great fit.
Real Impact: Kyle’s Story
During early COVID, we met Kyle Woumn, a talented Engineer who had the skills and drive but, like countless others, did not have access to the network and guidance he needed as an entrepreneur. We chatted through the risks and red flags of continuing to pursue his startup, and he decided to join a Hustle Fund portfolio company. He went on to become a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, now is an Engineering Manager at NerdWallet, and he’s just getting started.
In an incredible full-circle moment, Kyle became our first donor to kickstart this nonprofit.
In an incredible full-circle moment, Kyle became our first donor to kickstart this nonprofit.
Program Benefits
Get priority access to pitch to 2000+ Angel Investors
Get exclusive access to attend private pitch events and pitch your idea to the Angel Squad community for life.
Investor-Level Thinking
Learn Hustle Fund’s frameworks for evaluating startup opportunities, reviewing deals, and structuring investments.
Hands-On Practice
Watch real pitches from top founders and practice pitching startups to seasoned angels in our community.
Connections That Matter
Build relationships with investors and founders who can open doors to funding, mentorship, and growth.
