Thank you for applying to Funding Lab.
Applications close on 13th March. We will get back to all applicants then. Good luck!
🗓 Workshop day: Wednesday 19th April 9am- 6pm.
🗓 Pitch event: Wednesday 26th April 3pm-6pm.
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Fast, focused VC funding crash course.
Our Funding Lab programme includes a full day workshop and an afternoon pitch event at our offices in London.
Session 1: How do VC's assess deals?
Get the inside scoop on what a day in the life of a VC looks like. Understanding how the process works will enable you to make sure you stand out.
Session 2: Growing your VC network.
What are the most effective ways that founders can build their VC network? Our investors share their top tips on how to land an introduction.
Session 3: Startup finance 101.
Step into the world of venture returns, cap tables and equity. Learn about the core finance metrics that a VC will want to see.
Session 4: Differentiate your narrative.
A strong brand narrative is key to a successful fundraise. Run by our marketing team at Forward, you'll learn about how make sure your pitch is one the VCs will remember.
Session 5: Perfecting your pitch.
What makes a good pitch? In this session, our investors will dive into the do's and don'ts when crafting your deck and pitch for VCs.
Funding Lab pitch event
One week after our workshop day, you will be invited back to pitch to the Forward investment team and the Funding Lab cohort.
Funding Lab FAQ's.
I’ve got an idea but I’m not ready to think about funding just yet.
This programme is best suited to founders who are looking to raise VC funding in the next 6 months. If you are in the very early idea stages, without a product idea just yet, you can still apply, however you will most probably be invited to take part in the online syllabus for early-stage founders, which will be delivered via email.
I’ve already started working on an idea/and have an early-stage product, can I apply?
Yes absolutely, we’d love to hear from you.
Where will the sessions be run?
The sessions will be run in-person (hurray!) at our offices on Finsbury Square in London. The full address is Huckletree Shoreditch, Alphabeta Building, 18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH.
Can I participate in the Founder Programme if I’m still working full time?
Yes but you must be available to attend the two sessions in the programme. A full day of sessions and workshops and the pitch event. Side-hustles are encouraged but we believe the Founders who will benefit most from this programme are those who are in the early-stages of their business growth.
What can I expect from the sessions in the programme?
Each session will be highly interactive, combining instruction, conversation and activity. You will have an opportunity to ask your questions in the Q&A section at the end of each session.
Can I still apply if I am outside the UK?
Forward Partners only invests in companies that are based in the UK. As the programme is in-person, you will be required to be in London for the two main sessions of the programme.
What happens if I can’t make all of the sessions?
In order to get the most from the programme, it’s important that you are able to make both sessions in person. We are unable to accommodate virtual attendees to either session.
Is there any cost involved?
Funding Lab is completely free for participants.
Do you take equity?
No, we don’t take any equity for participation in the programme, although our goal is to make pre-seed investments in successful participants.
I don’t live near London - how can I be accommodated?
You will be required to be in London for the two main sessions of the programme. Whilst Forward Partners will not be covering any accommodation costs incurred, we can share local hotels with you if you are accepted onto the programme.
I have young children - how can I be accommodated?
If you have any specific childcare needs that may impact your ability to attend the sessions, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate you.
I have a disability which means I may struggle to participate in the sessions - how can I be accommodated?
Please get in touch with us and we’ll work with you to find the best solution depending on your needs.
Can I apply for Funding Lab and Office Hours?
You can apply to both Funding Lab and Office Hours, however, if you are accepted onto the Founders Programme, we won’t accept your Office Hours application.
Who will be my mentor?
Your mentor will be a member of the Forward investment team and you’ll get two mentorships sessions. You will have the opportunity to speak with multiple members of our Studio team during the Funding Lab sessions.
Can my co-founder/s attend too?
Unfortunately, we can only host one founder per company.
How does the programme finish?
You will leave the Pitch Event with some actionable, specific feedback about your pitch and deck. Our ambition is to invest in as many of the companies we believe are ready from Funding Lab. If this isn’t the case for you, we will advise on what aspect of the business still needs some work and restart the conversation later down the line. We’re also more than happy to make introductions to other VCs if we don’t think we're good fit for the company.
When will I hear whether I’ve been successful?
We’ll get back to every applicant within 2 weeks.