Founders
Founders is a startup program operated by Dogpatch Labs that brings together engineers, domain experts, and commercial minds to build startups, offering funding and mentorship in Dublin's Docklands.
Company Overview
The Founders is a program designed to bring together Ireland’s top engineering talent, domain experts, and commercial minds to create and grow startups. Operated by Dogpatch Labs, Ireland's largest startup community, the program includes an extensive network of world-class mentors and experts. The program aims to help budding entrepreneurs match with co-founders, ideate new concepts, and accelerate their startup growth through structured phases of formation and acceleration.
Program Structure
The Founders program is divided into two phases and runs for a total of 6 months. Phase 1 (Formation) occurs from January to March 2025, providing participants with a €2,000 monthly grant. This phase focuses on co-founder matching and ideation. Phase 2 (Acceleration) runs from April to July 2025, where participants receive €100,000 investment for a 10% equity stake, to help accelerate the growth of their newly formed startups. Participants must relocate to Dublin's Docklands to partake in the program.
Funding and Investment
The Founders program offers substantial financial support from the beginning. Participants receive a monthly grant of €2,000 during Phase 1 as they develop their startup ideas. At the end of Phase 1, participants can pitch for pre-seed funding with the total investment topped up to €100,000. In Phase 2, startups receive a €100,000 investment in exchange for 10% equity to further accelerate their growth.
Sector Focus
The Founders program is sector-agnostic, welcoming startups from various industries. However, there is a particular interest in sectors like Health, Education, Sustainability, and Financial Services, especially those leveraging AI technologies. This broad yet targeted focus enables the program to support a wide array of innovative ideas while promoting advancements in crucial areas that benefit society.
Portfolio Companies
The Founders program has a diverse portfolio that includes startups in AI, SaaS, and sustainability, among others. Notable examples include Gemell, GamesGrid, Cocu.AI, Shōden AI, Nocomed, Inspeq AI, Talio, and Glitch. These companies exemplify the success and innovation fostered within the supportive ecosystem of Dogpatch Labs, benefiting from resources, mentorship, and investment opportunities.