The Forum Accelerator

• Early-stage AI or SaaS founders seeking accelerator support from Forum Ventures.

About this scheme

Forum Ventures operates "The Forum Accelerator," a B2B tech program specifically designed by experienced founders and early operators for early-stage B2B software companies. The organization's core mission is to simplify and significantly enhance the B2B software journey for its portfolio companies, offering a comprehensive support system tailored to their unique needs. Forum Ventures distinguishes itself by acting as a "fractional co-founder," providing deep, hands-on guidance to help startups achieve meaningful traction and become ready for subsequent funding rounds. Their focus on B2B SaaS stems from a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in this sector, aiming to equip founders with specialized knowledge and networks crucial for enterprise sales and growth. Forum Ventures has a strong track record, having supported numerous successful B2B startups in navigating the complexities of early-stage development and fundraising.

The accelerator provides a substantial pre-seed investment of Rs. 9,000,000 (equivalent to $100,000 USD) to each selected company. This capital is typically the first institutional check for many startups and is disbursed quickly, usually on the first day of the program. The funding is intended to support the startup's initial growth, enabling them to establish a strong operational base and scale towards their next fundraising milestone. Forum Ventures takes a 7.5% equity stake on a standard post-money SAFE agreement for this investment, aligning their success with that of the founders.

Beyond financial capital, the program offers extensive non-monetary support. Participants gain access to an unparalleled network of over 200 mentors and advisors, 750 co-investors, and a vibrant community of 1300 founders. Key support includes direct customer introductions to over 300 F500 and F1000 companies for critical feedback and early customer acquisition, along with dedicated fundraise support that has demonstrably helped portfolio companies raise over Rs. 90 billion (equivalent to $1 billion USD) in follow-on funding. This network is pivotal for accelerating market validation and securing future investment.

Founders also receive introductions to 250+ global investors and practical operational resources in finance, HR, operations, and marketing. Furthermore, startups benefit from over Rs. 9,000,000 (equivalent to $100,000 USD) in business perks from leading platforms like Google, AWS, Brex, Hubspot, and Stripe, significantly enhancing their growth and operational efficiency without additional cost. The program emphasizes a customized approach, adapting guidance and tactical solutions to each startup's specific stage and goals. Founders work closely with a dedicated Managing Director who acts as a fractional co-founder, ensuring focused accountability and consistent progress.

Who can apply

• Applicants must be B2B software companies. This specialization allows Forum Ventures to provide highly tailored mentorship, network connections, and operational support specific to the enterprise software market, which differs significantly from B2C.
• Startups should be in the early-stage (pre-seed) of their journey. This focus ensures that the accelerator can provide foundational support and strategic guidance at a critical juncture, helping companies build robust strategies from the ground up.
• Companies must have, or be about to have, an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) in the market. This demonstrates initial product development and a readiness to engage with early customers, which is crucial for validation and iterative improvement within the accelerator program.
• Startups must have taken on less than Rs. 45,000,000 (equivalent to $500,000 USD) in prior funding. This criterion ensures that the accelerator's investment and equity stake are meaningful for the startup's current stage, typically making Forum Ventures the first institutional investor.
• Ideal founders are passionate about their build, demonstrate strong founder-market fit, and actively seek fractional co-founder guidance. This means founders should be deeply committed to their vision and open to collaborative, hands-on support.
• Founders should be driven, coachable, and eager to leverage the extensive network and resources provided by Forum Ventures.
• The program is open to founders globally, offering remote participation, though optional access to office spaces is available in Toronto, New York City, and San Francisco for those who prefer an in-person environment or wish to connect locally.

Benefits & funding

• 9,000,000 ($100,000 USD) pre-seed investment, disbursed quickly.
• Includes access to 200+ mentors, 750 co-investors, 1300 founders, and direct customer introductions to F500/F1000 companies.
• Offers dedicated fundraise support, investor introductions, operational resources (finance, HR, marketing), and over Rs.
• 9,000,000 ($100,000 USD) in business perks (Google, AWS, etc.).
• Features customized guidance from a dedicated Managing Director (fractional co-founder) and optional co-working spaces in select cities.

How the application process works

The journey below is informational, compiled from the official program guidelines. Applications are submitted directly with Forum Ventures, in your own name.

1. 1

   Interested founders submit a 'pitch us form' on the Forum Ventures website with details on team, product, market, and traction.

2. 2

   Applicants typically hear back within 1, 2 weeks for an introductory call to assess alignment.

3. 3

   Successful calls lead to further interviews and due diligence before final selection into the B2B SaaS accelerator.

Documents checklist 1

• Pitch Us Form

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Frequently asked questions