The Forum Accelerator
Check your eligibility
Sign up and we'll tell you whether your startup qualifies for this grant.
Quick Answer
Pre-seed accelerator for B2B software startups, offering ₹9,000,000 investment and tailored guidance.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹90 Lakhs
- Funding type
- Equity
- Provider
- Forum Ventures
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- International
About this funding program
Forum Ventures operates "The Forum Accelerator," a B2B tech program specifically designed by experienced founders and early operators for early-stage B2B software companies. The organization's core mission is to simplify and significantly enhance the B2B software journey for its portfolio companies, offering a comprehensive support system tailored to their unique needs. Forum Ventures distinguishes itself by acting as a "fractional co-founder," providing deep, hands-on guidance to help startups achieve meaningful traction and become ready for subsequent funding rounds. Their focus on B2B SaaS stems from a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in this sector, aiming to equip founders with specialized knowledge and networks crucial for enterprise sales and growth. Forum Ventures has a strong track record, having supported numerous successful B2B startups in navigating the complexities of early-stage development and fundraising.
The accelerator provides a substantial pre-seed investment of ₹93 lakh to each selected company. This capital is typically the first institutional check for many startups and is disbursed quickly, usually on the first day of the program. The funding is intended to support the startup's initial growth, enabling them to establish a strong operational base and scale towards their next fundraising milestone. Forum Ventures takes a 7.5% equity stake on a standard post-money SAFE agreement for this investment, aligning their success with that of the founders.
Beyond financial capital, the program offers extensive non-monetary support. Participants gain access to an unparalleled network of over 200 mentors and advisors, 750 co-investors, and a vibrant community of 1300 founders. Key support includes direct customer introductions to over 300 F500 and F1000 companies for critical feedback and early customer acquisition, along with dedicated fundraise support that has demonstrably helped portfolio companies raise over ₹9,300 crore in follow-on funding. This network is pivotal for accelerating market validation and securing future investment.
Founders also receive introductions to 250+ global investors and practical operational resources in finance, HR, operations, and marketing. Furthermore, startups benefit from over ₹93 lakh in business perks from leading platforms like Google, AWS, Brex, Hubspot, and Stripe, significantly enhancing their growth and operational efficiency without additional cost. The program emphasizes a customized approach, adapting guidance and tactical solutions to each startup's specific stage and goals. Founders work closely with a dedicated Managing Director who acts as a fractional co-founder, ensuring focused accountability and consistent progress.
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
Forum Ventures is a venture firm for early-stage B2B software companies. It runs a pre-seed accelerator, a pre-seed fund, an AI venture studio and a free validation sprint called The Foundry. Its legal entity is Forum Ventures, LLC, with a registered address in New York City,…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹90 Lakhs
What You Get
Provides a ₹93 lakh pre-seed investment, disbursed quickly. Includes access to 200+ mentors, 750 co-investors, 1300 founders, and direct customer introductions to F500/F1000 companies. Offers dedicated fundraise support, investor introductions, operational resources (finance, HR, marketing), and over ₹93 lakh in business perks (Google, AWS, etc.). Features customized guidance from a dedicated Managing Director (fractional co-founder) and optional co-working spaces in select cities.
- Disbursement
- Lump Sum
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
Interested founders submit a 'pitch us form' on the Forum Ventures website with details on team, product, market, and traction. Applicants typically hear back within 1–2 weeks for an introductory call to assess alignment. Successful calls lead to further interviews and due diligence before final selection into the B2B SaaS accelerator.
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
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
- 3
Line up your documents
Keep every document from the checklist ready in one folder. Missing docs are the #1 reason applications get bounced.
- 4
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 5
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Forum Ventures invest and what are the terms?
Forum Ventures provides ₹93 lakh in pre-seed funding to each company joining the program. This is typically the first check, written quickly on day one. The terms are ₹9,000,000 for 7.5% equity on a standard, post-money SAFE.
What type of companies does Forum Ventures fund?
Forum Ventures funds B2B software companies in any vertical. Companies should be in the early-stage (pre-seed) of their journey, have or be about to have an MVP in market, and have taken on less than ₹4.65 crore in prior funding.
What kind of founders are a good fit for Forum's program?
Forum Ventures seeks founders who are passionate about their build, have strong founder-market fit, and are looking for a fractional co-founder to guide and challenge them. Ideal candidates are driven and coachable.
What is the application process?
Founders can fill out the comprehensive "pitch us form" online. Forum Ventures aims to respond within 1-2 weeks regarding a potential call with their team, which may lead to further interviews.
Are applicants required to be in a specific location?
While Forum Ventures has office spaces available in Toronto, New York City, and San Francisco, they are happy to work with founders remotely, wherever they reside. They also encourage office visits and in-person event participation when possible.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
