Startup Runway Foundation

Overview

Startup Runway Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to supporting underrepresented founders in the Southeastern United States by offering early, non-dilutive capital, mentorship, and access to investors. Founded in 2016, the foundation focuses on assisting founders before the pre-seed stage, helping them refine their business models and prepare for institutional funding. Through its programs, Startup Runway has supported over 5,000 startups, enabling them to raise nearly $100 million in funding and significantly increasing their chances of securing seed rounds. The foundation's approach includes providing non-dilutive $10,000 grants to early-stage founders, offering structured pitch practice and feedback, and facilitating curated showcases and introductions to investors, corporate partners, and ecosystem leaders. By collaborating with corporations, universities, and civic organizations, Startup Runway extends opportunities beyond capital, helping founders access expertise, customers, and long-term pathways to scale. With a mission to close the gap between overlooked talent and real opportunity, Startup Runway continues to empower underrepresented founders, fostering innovation and economic mobility within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Investment Focus

• Founder-led startups
• Headquartered in the United States
• Beyond the idea stage with an MVP and initial customers
• Scalable business models suitable for venture capital investment
• Less than $200K in prior funding
• Not completed top-ranked national accelerators like Y Combinator or Techstars