Global pre-seed accelerator program to kick off in April 2025 with virtual events and a structured program for early-stage entrepreneurs

BEAUFORT, S.C. (Dec. 5, 2024) – The Beaufort Digital Corridor has been selected to lead the South Carolina chapter of the Founder Institute, the world's largest pre-seed accelerator. This program is designed to help early-stage entrepreneurs launch and scale tech companies and will now be available to South Carolina's startup community.

The initiative aims to strengthen South Carolina's entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing founders with access to global resources, expert mentorship, and a structured curriculum focused on building scalable business models.

"This is a transformative opportunity for our local entrepreneurs," said Jess O'Brien, Executive Director of the Beaufort Digital Corridor. "By partnering with the Founder Institute, we're equipping Beaufort's founders with the tools and support they need to succeed and compete in a global market."

The Founder Institute operates in over 90 countries and has helped launch more than 7,500 companies that have collectively raised over $1.85 billion in funding. Its structured 14-week program helps early-stage founders validate their ideas, develop scalable products, and prepare for growth and fundraising.

Through this partnership, South Carolina entrepreneurs gain access to a global network of mentors and resources, positioning the state as a hub for innovation and high-growth startups.

Kickoff Events Announced

To celebrate the launch of the Founder Institute South Carolina chapter, the Beaufort Digital Corridor will host several events designed to engage entrepreneurs, investors, and community members:

• Jan. 21, 2025, at 6 p.m. – Meet the South Carolina Startup Ecosystem**
  **Participants will be introduced to South Carolina's entrepreneurial landscape and key players in the ecosystem.
• Jan. 22, 2025, at 8 p.m. – What is the DNA of an Entrepreneur? Insights from 15 Years of Research**
  **Learn what makes successful entrepreneurs thrive, based on Founder Institute's global research and data from over 6,500 startups.
• Feb. 12, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. – Startup Funding in South Carolina, Featuring Venture South**
  **This session will provide a deep dive into funding opportunities for startups, featuring insights from Venture South, one of the region's leading angel investment groups.
• Feb. 25, 2025, at 6 p.m. – Speed Mentoring: Get Feedback and Network with Top South Carolina Mentors**
  **Connect with experienced mentors for rapid, actionable feedback on your startup ideas and expand your network in the local entrepreneurial community.
• Mar. 21-23, 2025 – Techstars Startup Weekend**
  **Join a 54-hour immersive event where entrepreneurs, developers, and creatives collaborate to turn ideas into startups with guidance from experienced mentors.

Applications and Timeline

Applications for the first cohort of the Founder Institute South Carolina chapter will open in early 2025, with the program officially kicking off in April. Additional events and deadlines leading up to the launch include:

• Mar. 9, 2025 – Founder Institute Early Admissions Deadline
• Apr. 13, 2025 – Founder Institute Final Admissions Deadline
• Apr. 28, 2025 – Founder Institute Accelerator Kickoff**

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Building South Carolina's Tech Economy

The partnership with the Founder Institute offers South Carolina startups a unique opportunity to leverage a proven framework, connect with global networks, and gain the skills necessary to succeed in today's competitive market. The program's focus on early-stage founders fills a critical gap in the state's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem.

For more information about the Founder Institute South Carolina chapter or to register for upcoming events, visithttps://fi.co/core.

About the Beaufort Digital Corridor

The Beaufort Digital Corridor is an initiative dedicated to supporting technology entrepreneurs in Beaufort County. Through education, mentorship, and community-building, the organization fosters innovation and helps create a vibrant local economy.