Activate Fellowship 2027 in USA | Call for Applications

Activate is opening applications for its 2027 U.S. fellowship cohort. This two-year program transforms scientists and engineers into company founders. Fellows bring cutting-edge research directly into commercial markets nationwide. Since launching, Activate has helped 346 scientists start hard tech companies. The program provides funding, mentorship, and access to a strong network. Applications for the 2027 cohort open September 15.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: Activate, with five fellowship communities nationwide
• Duration: Two years, full-time commitment
• Funding: Over $300,000 total across the fellowship period
• Equity Requirement: None; the program takes zero equity
• Applications Open: September 15, 2026

Focus Areas

• Robotics, advanced manufacturing, and materials science
• Carbon capture, climate tech, and sustainable chemistry
• Semiconductors, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence
• Energy systems, biotechnology, and aerospace innovation

About the Fellowship

This program specifically targets early-stage hard tech science entrepreneurs. Fellows receive substantial funding covering living expenses and research and development. Beyond money, fellows join a genuine community of scientists and investors. Regular mentorship comes directly from Activate’s experienced community team members. Each fellowship community is led by a Managing Director with founder experience. These leaders understand firsthand the challenges of building hard tech ventures.

What the Fellowship Provides

Fellows receive an annual living stipend alongside research and development funding. This totals more than $300,000 across the full two-year term. Additionally, fellows access leadership development through workshops and skill-building sessions. Regular one-on-one meetings offer guidance and honest, unbiased advice throughout. This creates comprehensive support extending well beyond simple financial backing alone.

Who Can Apply

Applicants need a bachelor’s degree and four years of relevant experience. This includes scientific research, engineering, or technology development backgrounds specifically. Candidates must be leading their first hard tech commercialization effort ever. Full-time commitment to the proposed venture is required if selected. Applicants must also hold legal authorization to work in the U.S.

Project Requirements

Proposed technologies must fall within physical or biological sciences broadly. Projects should remain in development, not yet ready for full-scale sales. Additionally, ventures cannot have raised more than $2 million in outside funding. This ensures the fellowship truly supports genuinely early-stage innovation.

Required Materials

Applicants submit a blinded one-page resume with personal details removed. This includes removing names and photos to reduce reviewer bias. Additional materials include statements addressing technical vision and technical feasibility.

How to Apply

Complete the interest form to receive your application portal link.

#339966;">#339966;" href="https://activate.org/apply" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click Here to Apply

Conclusion

This fellowship offers exceptional, equity-free support for scientists ready to transform their research into real commercial ventures. Its emphasis on community and mentorship, alongside substantial funding, sets it apart from typical startup accelerators. Given the detailed technical requirements and blinded review process, prospective applicants should carefully prepare their materials well before applications open on September 15.

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