Foundry, a student-run startup accelerator at Carnegie Mellon University, is inviting applications for its Fall 2026 (F26) cohort, targeting founders who are actively building venture-scale, revenue-generating companies. The accelerator is designed for ambitious student founders who are already developing and validating their businesses rather than those with ideas that may be pursued at a later stage. Foundry is industry-agnostic and welcomes ventures spanning software, hardware, healthcare, and other fields, provided they demonstrate meaningful progress and strong growth potential. Only seven teams will be selected for the cohort, making the programme highly competitive. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is strongly encouraged. About Foundry Foundry is operated as an initiative of ScottyLabs at Carnegie Mellon University. It functions as an intensive environment for founders who are committed to building their startups while receiving support from a community focused on entrepreneurship and venture development. The accelerator takes no equity from participating companies. This means founders can access the programme without giving up ownership of their ventures. Foundry’s approach is deliberately focused on companies that are already operating at a meaningful level. Applicants are expected to demonstrate that they are building their businesses now, rather than simply planning to begin development in the future. What Foundry Is Looking For Foundry is seeking founders who can demonstrate that their startup has the potential to become a venture-scale, revenue-generating company. The accelerator is not restricted to a particular industry. Applicants may be developing: Software companies Hardware ventures Healthcare or medical businesses Technology-enabled enterprises Other scalable commercial ventures However, Foundry emphasizes that it is stage-specific rather than idea-specific. Having an interesting concept alone is not sufficient. Applicants should already be actively building, testing, validating or generating revenue from their venture. Founders who expect to reach the required stage a year from now are encouraged to apply during a future cohort rather than submitting an application prematurely. Founder Commitment Foundry expects a significant level of commitment from participating founders. Every founder is expected to dedicate more than 30 hours per week to their startup. This requirement reflects the accelerator’s emphasis on founders who are serious about turning their ventures into substantial businesses. Applicants should therefore be prepared to demonstrate not only the quality of their business but also their personal commitment, execution capacity and ability to devote substantial time to building the company. Cohort Size and Track Record The F26 cohort will consist of only seven selected teams, creating a highly selective environment in which founders can work alongside a small group of ambitious entrepreneurs. Foundry-affiliated teams have collectively raised more than $11 million, demonstrating the accelerator’s connection to startups that have gone on to secure significant external funding. Another defining feature of the programme is its founder-friendly structure: Foundry takes 0% equity from participating startups. Application Process Applications for the F26 cohort are submitted through Foundry’s online application platform. The accelerator uses a rolling review process, meaning applications are considered as they are received rather than being held until the final deadline. Interviews are also conducted on a rolling basis. Foundry explicitly advises applicants to apply early because earlier submissions can provide an advantage during the review and interview process. The application period closes on 10 September 2026. Who Should Apply? The opportunity is particularly suited to founders who: Are currently building a startup. Have progressed beyond the idea stage. Are working toward a venture-scale business. Have evidence of product development, market validation or revenue potential. Can commit at least 30 hours per week to the venture. Are prepared to work intensively with a selective founder community. Want accelerator support without giving up equity. Applicants whose ventures are still primarily conceptual may be better suited to applying once they have reached a more advanced stage of development. Key Programme Details Programme: Foundry F26 Startup Accelerator Institution: Carnegie Mellon University Operator: ScottyLabs Cohort: Fall 2026 Teams Selected: 7 Equity Taken: 0% Founder Commitment: 30+ hours per week Application Review: Rolling Interviews: Rolling Application Deadline: 10 September 2026 Eligible Ventures: Software, hardware, medical and other scalable businesses Why Founders Should Consider Foundry Foundry provides a highly selective platform for student entrepreneurs who are already committed to building scalable companies. Its combination of a small cohort, intensive founder commitment, industry-agnostic approach and zero-equity model makes it particularly attractive to entrepreneurs who want structured accelerator support without surrendering ownership. The programme is best suited to founders who can demonstrate that their venture is already happening and who are prepared to dedicate substantial time to taking it to the next level. Founders interested in participating should prepare their application early, clearly demonstrate current progress and explain why their company has the potential to become a venture-scale business. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.