Create Tech Ventures for Social Impact
Turn bold ideas into fundable ventures that drive economic mobility.
welcomING founders WHO
- Are tackling problems tied to Robin Hood’s core issue areas.
- Bring lived or learned experience to the work.
- Are ready to move from idea to action.
- You don’t need a prototype or a co-founder—just conviction, clarity, and the drive to build.
Everything you need to go from idea to MVP
Over 20 weeks you’ll validate your idea, build your MVP and gain real traction with hands‑on workshops, user testing, mentorship, funding, coworking and network access.
Weekly Programming That Moves You Forward
Live sessions led by experienced founders and operators focused on research, validation, product, growth, and fundraising.
Real User Feedback, Real Traction
Tap into the DIG community to pressure-test your idea, gather insights, and shape something people actually want.
Expert Support, When and Where You Need It
Get 1:1 mentorship, group coaching, and hands-on help from engineers, designers, and product pros.
$20K to Build, Not Just Dream
Get a $20,000 stipend so you can go heads-down on execution.
A Space and a Community to Build With
Co‑work alongside other determined founders at the BRL Lab in Brooklyn for collaboration that fuels momentum.
Get Seen by the Right People
Tap into Robin Hood’s powerful network by showcasing your work to leaders in tech, philanthropy, and policy.
Your 20-Week roadmap to a fundable venture
Over two phases you’ll validate your assumptions and test with real users in virtual workshops, then build your MVP in Brooklyn with in‑person sessions, expert mentorship, a $20K stipend, coworking and network access.
Phase 1 - Research & Discovery
Virtual-first with optional in-person access
- Access to our DIG community for user interviews and testing
- Weekly sessions on discovery, validation, and storytelling
- Space to explore, pivot, and deepen your thinking
- Final presentations to a panel of experts, funders, and community leaders
Phase 2 - Build
In-person at BRL Lab, Brooklyn
- A $20,000 stipend to support you during the build
- Structured workshops on product, growth, and fundraising
- Dedicated work time + collaboration with functional experts
- Weekly onsite programming for accountability and community
- Final showcase with an audience of funders, operators, and partners
What they say about us
“I went from feeling stuck and uncertain to pitching my vision with confidence thanks to this fellowship."
“The user insights I gathered were life‑changing and reshaped how I approach every step of my journey.”
“Collaborating with mentors in Brooklyn reignited my passion and gave me the courage to keep pushing forward.”
“Robin Hood’s community opened doors I never knew existed and brought my idea to life in ways I couldn’t have imagined.”
“The deep‑dive research phase transformed my vague assumptions into a powerful story that resonates with everyone I meet.”
Applicatons are now open
If you’re ready to build something that matters—with the support, structure, and community to back you—this is your moment.
Frequently asked questions about our program
Who should apply?
Early‑stage founders driving economic mobility in New York City who bring lived or learned experience and are ready to move from idea to action.
Do I need a prototype or a co‑founder?
No, you only need conviction, clarity and the drive to build—Phase 1 will help you sharpen your story before you code or recruit.
What are The impact areas?
We focus on five key arenas that drive economic mobility and community resilience:
- Education
Empower learners at every stage with tools and programs that open doors to opportunity. - Financial Access
Bridge gaps for underbanked communities through innovative lending, saving and investment solutions. - Health
Promote wellness and equitable care with products and services that put people’s well‑being first. - Housing
Create stable, affordable living options that give families a place to thrive. - Hunger & Jobs
Build pathways to food security and meaningful employment that uplift individuals and neighborhoods.
What is the time commitment?
Phase 1 runs June–July with virtual workshops and optional in‑person meetups, and Phase 2 runs September–November with two to three days a week of on‑site programming at the BRL Lab in Brooklyn.
How does the $20,000 stipend work?
You receive the full stipend in Phase 2 to cover living and project costs so you can focus entirely on building your MVP.
Is there any cost to participate?
No, the fellowship is fully funded by Robin Hood—programming, workspace access and the build stipend are all covered.
What if my idea doesn’t progress past Phase 1?
Phase 1 is designed to surface the most promising ventures, but every participant gains clear research insights, user feedback and a stronger narrative to carry forward.
How do I apply?
Submit your idea summary and background through our application form by the deadline; we review all entries and notify Phase 1 fellows shortly thereafter.