Create Tech Ventures for Social Impact
Turn bold ideas into fundable ventures that drive economic mobility
welcomING founders WHO
- Are tackling problems tied to Robin Hood’s core issue areas
- Bring lived or learned experience to the work
- Are ready to move from idea to action
- You don’t need a prototype or a co-founder—just conviction, clarity, and the drive to build
Everything you need to go from idea to MVP
Over 20 weeks you’ll validate your idea, build your MVP and gain real traction with hands‑on workshops, user testing, mentorship, funding, coworking and network access.
Weekly Programming That Moves You Forward
Live sessions led by experienced founders and operators focused on research, validation, product, growth, and fundraising
Real User Feedback, Real Traction
Tap into the DIG community to pressure-test your idea, gather insights, and shape something people actually want
Expert Support, When and Where You Need It
Get 1:1 mentorship, group coaching, and hands-on help from engineers, designers, and product pros
$20K to Build, Not Just Dream
Get a $20,000 stipend so you can go heads-down on execution
A Space and a Community to Build With
Co‑work alongside other determined founders at the BRL Lab in Brooklyn for collaboration that fuels momentum
Get Seen by the Right People
Tap into Robin Hood’s powerful network by showcasing your work to leaders in tech, philanthropy, and policy
Your 20-Week roadmap to a fundable venture
Over two phases you’ll validate your assumptions and test with real users in virtual workshops, then build your MVP in Brooklyn with in‑person sessions, expert mentorship, a $20,000 stipend, coworking and network access.
Phase 1 - Research & Discovery
Virtual-first with optional in-person access
- Access to our DIG (Design Insight Group) community for user interviews and testing
- Weekly sessions on discovery, validation, and storytelling
- Space to explore, pivot, and deepen your thinking
- Final presentations to a panel of experts, funders, and community leaders
Phase 2 - Build
In-person at BRL Lab, Brooklyn
- A $20,000 stipend to support you during the build phase
- Structured workshops on product, growth, and fundraising
- Dedicated work time + collaboration with functional experts
- Weekly onsite programming for accountability and community
- Final showcase with an audience of funders, operators, and partners
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Applicatons are now open
If you’re ready to build something that matters—with the support, structure, and community to back you—this is your moment
Frequently asked questions about our program
Who should apply?
Early‑stage founders driving economic mobility who bring lived or learned experience and are ready to move from idea to action.
Do I need a prototype or a co‑founder?
No, you only need conviction, clarity and the drive to build—Phase 1 will help you sharpen your story before you code or recruit.
What are The impact areas?
We focus on five key areas that drive economic mobility and community resilience:
- Education
Empower learners at every stage with tools and programs that open doors to opportunity. - Financial Empowerment
Bridge gaps for underbanked communities through innovative lending, saving and investment solutions. - Health
Promote wellness and equitable care with products and services that put people’s well‑being first. - Housing
Create stable, affordable living options that give families a place to thrive. - Hunger & Jobs
Build pathways to food security and meaningful employment that uplift individuals and neighborhoods.
What is the time commitment?
Phase 1 runs June–July with virtual workshops and optional in‑person meetups, and Phase 2 runs September–November with two to three days a week of on‑site programming at the BRL Lab in Brooklyn.
Is there any cost to participate?
No. The fellowship is funded by Robin Hood. Select fellows advancing to Phase 2 receive the full stipend of $20,000 to build an MVP.
What if my idea doesn’t progress past Phase 1?
Phase 1 is designed to surface the most promising ventures, but every participant gains clear research insights, user feedback and a stronger narrative to carry forward.
How do I apply?
Submit your idea summary and background through our application form by the deadline; we review all entries and notify Phase 1 fellows shortly thereafter.
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Check out this webpage that covers other frequently asked questions about the Founder Fellowship.