Founders Cohort

The ACCESS Founders Cohort is the flagship program of the Foundation. The program supports early-stage entrepreneurs by providing access to capital, connections, and coaching – all leading to a dynamic Investor Showcase. Founders get a chance to refine their pitch and meet angel investors that want to help companies grow. 

Applications for the 2025 cohort are now open.

Apply for the 2025 access Cohort

Our Process

Founder Qualifications

To qualify for the Founders Cohort, companies must meet the following criteria:

  • Early stage, Seed, Seed+
  • Post revenue (Post Revenue (min annual revenue/ARR of $100K or recent monthly run rate/MRR of $10K during the last three months).
  • Raising equity and can submit a “roughly right” term sheet by 4/30/25 as part of the online application process.
  • Must be able to provide proformas, financials, and full company data upon request.
  • Provide Business Plan summary, Business Model Canvas, and Pitch Deck will be required for all finalists.
  • Location preferred: Georgia + Southeast

Access Founders Cohort Timeline

March 1 – Applications Open

April 30 – Applications Close

May 15 – Due Diligence

June 5 – 2025 Founders Cohort Finalists Announced

August 2 – Mock Rounds

August 16 – Investor Showcase

 

Workshops

Learning is growing, and in order for your company to grow you need to stay on top of new trends, ideas, and more! As a Founders Cohort member, you will have access to the Workshops offered by the Access Georgia Foundation. Topics may include finance, legal, marketing and more.

Mentoring Program

Coaching is key! With our Mentoring Program, founders get paired with at least two business leaders for 1:1 coaching. Founders also get office hours with the Access Corporate Advisory Council made up of corporate executives and leadership who are subject matter experts in focused areas of entrepreneurship.