500 Global Fellowship 2026
By 500 Global
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Quick Answer
500 Global's flagship accelerator in San Francisco for ambitious early-stage founders building for the U.S. and global markets, offering investment, mentorship, and network access.
- Funding amount
- ₹41.5 Lakhs – ₹8.3 Cr
- Funding type
- Equity
- Provider
- 500 Global
- Application deadline
- Closed
- Location
- International
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 2 October 2026. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by 500 Global. Official links are listed under Sources below.
We update this page when results are published, and when the next round opens.
About this funding program
The 500 Fellowship is 500 Global's premier program designed for the world's most ambitious early-stage founders tackling challenging global problems. Based in San Francisco, California, this intensive four-month accelerator provides a unique environment for founders to refine their vision and accelerate their growth. Participants will engage with a high-caliber cohort, receive guidance from Unicorn founders, and gain access to top VCs in Silicon Valley.
The program is tailored for 'slope changers' – those building beyond the edge of what's currently possible and ready to be pushed to their limits. It emphasizes hands-on work, expert mentorship, and a curriculum focused on growth hacks, design best practices, customer discovery, product-market fit, go-to-market strategies, and fundraising. The goal is to provide crucial capital, a vast network of resources, and market insights across multiple geographies to unlock unique growth opportunities. This program is ideal for founders who have just started or already have initial users, revenue, or pilots, and are committed to building a global presence, either already in the U.S. or planning to relocate within six months.
Eligibility
See if you're eligible
Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Funding providers
500 Global (formerly 500 Startups) is a global venture capital firm and seed accelerator headquartered in San Francisco, California. Founded in 2010 by Dave McClure and Christine Tsai, the firm has grown into one of the most prolific early-stage investors in the world, with…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- ₹41.5 Lakhs – ₹8.3 Cr
What You Get
The 500 Fellowship provides a crucial initial investment of up to US$50,000 (approximately ₹41.5 lakh), with the potential for up to US$1 million (approximately ₹8.3 crore) more as startups achieve milestones and progress. Beyond capital, the four-month program in San Francisco offers unparalleled access to 500 Global's vast network of VCs, experienced operator-investors, alumni founder coaches, and entrepreneurs in residence. Participants benefit from a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing growth hacks, design best practices, customer discovery, product-market fit, and pitch development, all designed to accelerate their problem-solving and fundraising efforts. The program also fosters a strong community among a diverse cohort of global founders.
- Disbursement
- Tranched
- Duration
- 4 months
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
The selection process involves an initial application review, followed by a series of interviews with the 500 Global team for shortlisted applicants. The program seeks founders with deep insights, unfair advantages, and a global mindset, often accepting 'day 0' founders who are just starting out but demonstrate significant potential.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Submit your application by the deadline for consideration. Note the program fee of US$35,000 for Phase 1.
You - 2
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 3
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 500 Fellowship?
The 500 Fellowship is 500 Global's flagship accelerator program in San Francisco, designed for early-stage founders building for the U.S. and global markets, providing investment, mentorship, and extensive network access.
What kind of investment does the program offer?
Companies accepted into the 500 Fellowship can receive up to US$50,000 immediately, with the potential for up to US$1 million more as they progress through the program and achieve key milestones. This is an investment into the company.
Is there a program fee?
Yes, there is a program fee of US$35,000 per startup for Phase 1, excluding travel expenses. This fee covers the comprehensive support, mentorship, and resources provided throughout the initial phase of the program.
Who is eligible to apply?
The program targets top 0.1% of founders with deep market insights and an unfair advantage. It's open to builders as early as day 0, those with initial users, revenue, or pilots, and who are either in the U.S. or plan to be within six months.
What kind of support is provided?
Participants receive mentorship from experienced operator-investors and alumni, access to 500 Global's vast network of VCs and resources, a curriculum focused on growth, product-market fit, fundraising, and the opportunity to build within a strong founder community.
Is relocation to San Francisco required?
Yes, the program is conducted in San Francisco, California for four months. Applicants are expected to be in the U.S. already or plan to be within six months to participate in person with their cohort.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
