Applications for this cohort have closed. Check back for the next batch, or [browse open programs](/content/acceleratorhub/programs/index.html). # VC Lab Cohort 18 [Founder Institute](/content/acceleratorhub/organizations/founder-institute/index.html) Remote Deadline: Closed Pre-seed VC Lab program designed to help founders and teams get a business to traction and funding. ## About This Program ### Program Overview: VC Lab Cohort 18 VC Lab is a pre-seed venture capital program designed to empower aspiring fund managers and teams to establish and grow their own venture capital funds. While the specific founding story of VC Lab is not detailed, it operates under the Founder Institute, known as the "world's largest pre-seed accelerator." This association suggests a mission rooted in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, extending to the creation of new funding vehicles for startups. ### Mission and Values The core mission of VC Lab Cohort 18 is to guide participants through the intricate process of launching a venture capital fund, from initial concept to securing limited partners. The program's structure emphasizes practical, sprint-based learning, indicating a value system focused on actionable steps, rapid iteration, and tangible outcomes. The curriculum is designed to equip fund managers with the knowledge and tools necessary to identify promising investment theses, build robust venture teams, and effectively raise capital. ### Program Structure and Timeline VC Lab Cohort 18 is structured as a series of intensive sprints, each focusing on a critical aspect of fund formation and management. The program commences with **Sprint 0 - Orientation** on June 25, 2025, setting the stage for the subsequent modules. **Sprint 1 - Thesis Development** on July 2, 2025, helps participants define their investment focus. This is followed by **Sprint 2 - Venture Team** on July 16, 2025, and **Sprint 3 - Deal Warehouse** on July 23, 2025, where participants learn to build their team and pipeline. **Sprint 4 - Thesis Review** on August 6, 2025, refines their investment strategy, leading into **Sprint 5 - Firm Positioning** on August 13, 2025, and **Sprint 6 - Fund Presentation** on August 20, 2025. The latter half of the program delves into fundraising, with **Sprint 7 - Limited Partners** on August 27, 2025, **Sprint 8 - Deck Review** on September 10, 2025, and **Sprint 9 - Fund Economics** on September 17, 2025. The program concludes with practical elements like **Sprint 10 - Data Room** on September 24, 2025, **Sprint 11 - Pitch Meetings & Funnel** on October 1, 2025, **Sprint 12 - Pipeline Review** on October 8, 2025, and finally, **Sprint 13 - Fund Closing Strategy** on October 22, 2025. All sessions typically start at 12:00 pm (America/New_York), with one exception on September 10, 2025, at 11:00 am. ### Mentorship and Network While specific details on mentorship are not explicitly provided, programs associated with the Founder Institute typically leverage a vast global network of experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors. Participants can expect to gain access to a community of like-minded fund managers and receive guidance from seasoned professionals in the venture capital ecosystem. The structured sprints suggest a hands-on approach where feedback and expert insights are integral to the learning process. ### Investment Terms and Uniqueness The VC Lab program is focused on helping participants _raise_ a fund, rather than providing direct investment into the participants' own ventures. Therefore, traditional investment terms like funding amount or equity taken are not applicable in the same way as a startup accelerator. What makes VC Lab unique is its dedicated focus on the _fund manager_ as the 'founder,' providing a structured curriculum specifically for launching and operating a venture capital fund. This distinguishes it from programs that primarily support startup founders. ### What Participants Can Expect Day-to-Day Participants in VC Lab Cohort 18 can expect a rigorous, fast-paced learning environment. Each sprint involves dedicated sessions, typically lasting several hours, where key concepts are introduced and practical exercises are undertaken. Between sessions, participants will likely be engaged in applying the learned principles to their own fund development, including refining their investment thesis, building their team, sourcing deals, and preparing fundraising materials. The program demands significant commitment and active participation to maximize the benefits of each sprint. ### What You Get - Structured curriculum for fund formation - Guidance on thesis development - Support for building a venture team - Strategies for deal sourcing and pipeline management - Training on fund economics and presentation - Assistance with limited partner engagement - Fund closing strategy development ### Eligibility The program is designed for individuals and teams aspiring to become venture capital fund managers. While specific criteria are not detailed, it is implied that participants should have a strong interest in venture capital and a commitment to building a fund.