Frequently Asked Questions

How does it work?

You tell us a little about your startup and describe areas where a mentor could help you. We review your needs and try to match you with a mentor we think can help. When we find a match we'll make the introduction and then you and the mentor begin a "pairing". Each pairing runs over the course of three months during which time you’ll meet with your mentor, typically over breakfast or lunch, and continue to work on your business.  Depending on your needs, your mentor may provide you suggestions, analysis, or introductions, but the focus will be on actionable ideas. At the end of the pairing you may choose to move forward, bringing the mentor on as a formal advisor to your business, or you may reapply to the program for another pairing, hopefully focusing on your next challenge.

Who can apply?

Our program is open to all entrepreneurs, but the best candidates are usually actively working on a startup and have a specific topic or problem where they could use help from an experienced mentor.

Can you provide some examples of the kind of problems where a mentor could help?

Sure. The list includes just about any set of problems a startup founder might face, but here's a few examples:

• Product strategy
• Customer acquisition
• Technology planning
• Management coaching
• Fundraising guidance
• Business modeling
• Product development process
• Staffing and recruiting
• Naming and branding
• Finance and accounting
• Press and media relations

Who are the mentors?

Our mentors are startup founders in active operational roles who volunteer their time to help new entrepreneurs. They are some of the most accomplished entrepreneurs in Boston.

What if I'm not in the Boston area, can I still apply?

It's been our experience that in-person meetings are the best way to facilitate the Pairing, so unfortunately at this time our program is limited to entrepreneurs who can meet with mentors in person in the Boston area.

Can I meet with my mentor more often than once per month?

We recommend meeting monthly both out of respect for everyone’s schedules and to allow time to tackle actionable tasks between meetings.

Can I re-apply to the program after my first Pairing ends?

Yes, we ask that you only be engaged with one mentor at a time so we can support as many entrepreneurs as possible, but when a Pairing ends you are welcome to re-apply.

What happens if I apply and no mentors are available to help me?

There won't always be a match for the problem you're facing. We'll hold on to your information and mentors become available you’ll remain on the active list.  In the meantime, continue to plow ahead with your business, developer your customers and build social proof.  And if you make significant forward progress and wish to reapply with updated information that may make it easier for a mentor to help, you’re welcome to do so.

How is this program different than others like TechStars, Founders Institute, or the MIT Venture Mentoring Service?

We are huge fans of those programs and many of our mentors participate in those programs as well. But we believe there is a need for an independent mentoring program made up entirely of active founders and with the specific purpose of helping new entrepreneurs move their businesses forward. Some of the unique advantages of the Founder Mentor program are:

• Our mentors are startup founders in active operational roles just like you
• Our matching process pairs mentors and entrepreneurs based on specific business challenges
• Our structured program focuses on actionable ideas and provides a clear timeframe to make progress
• Our program is entirely free and open to anyone, regardless of other affiliations

Have a question that wasn't answered here? Please drop us a note!