Alpha Fellowship 2026 for Startups | Call for Applications

Applications are open for the Alpha Fellowship by a16z speedrun. This eight-week, in-person programme targets highly technical students and recent graduates. Fellows can join a fast-growing startup or launch their own company. Cohort 2 opened in September 2026, with early applicants receiving priority review.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) speedrun
• Location: In person, San Francisco, United States
• Duration: 8 weeks
• Tracks: Startup Track and Founder Track
• Cohort 2: Applications open now; no fixed closing date announced

Focus Areas

• Full-time engineering placement at breakout a16z companies
• Early-stage capital for aspiring startup founders
• Mentorship from experienced founders, engineers, and investors
• A pathway toward a16z’s flagship speedrun programme

About the Alpha Fellowship

Alpha connects ambitious engineers directly to the startup ecosystem. It skips the usual wait for early-career opportunity. The fellowship blends an immersive retreat with weekly founder conversations. Fellows also gain access to the wider speedrun and EO Ventures communities.

What Fellows Receive

Startup Track fellows join a matched portfolio company full-time. They receive salary and equity set directly by that employer. Founder Track fellows instead get capital to build immediately. They receive an initial $20,000 grant before any team or idea exists. Up to $250,000 in follow-on investment becomes available afterward. Completing the fellowship also earns a guaranteed speedrun interview, unlocking up to $1 million more.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must be highly technical software engineers who build often. Eligible candidates are students or graduates within roughly three years of school. Valid U.S. work authorization is required for every applicant. Fellows must relocate to San Francisco and work full-time throughout.

Required Materials

Candidates apply individually through Alpha’s official online portal. Founder Track applicants should name any intended co-founders in their form. No formal company, team, or idea is required beforehand.

How to Apply

Submit your application through the official Alpha portal below. Early submissions receive priority consideration ahead of the closing date.

#339966;">#339966;" href="https://alpha.a16zspeedrun.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click Here to Apply

Conclusion

Alpha offers a genuinely fast on-ramp into Silicon Valley’s startup ecosystem. The Startup Track suits engineers seeking real experience at a growing company. The Founder Track suits builders ready to start something before it fully exists. Because Cohort 2 has no confirmed deadline yet, eligible applicants should apply immediately for priority review.

#008000;">READ MORE