How it works
Now
Applications are open. Eight questions, about ten minutes to answer.
February 12, 2027
Application deadline. Twenty spots, each sponsored by a local business.
After the deadline
Founders are notified by email, before the weekend.
February 26–28, 2027
Founder Lab weekend at Downtown Pizza, Lake Wales.
30, 60, 90 days after
Check-ins, mentor office hours, and a public update to sponsors.
Application · Closes February 12, 2027
Eight questions, twenty spots. Tell us what you want to build and why you'd show up for all three days.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply?
Anyone — all ages 18+ (or with guardian consent). We select for commitment (all three days), curiosity (learn, test, be wrong fast) and complementary skills — builders, sellers, designers, operators. Not polish, pedigree or a finished idea. Not sure you qualify? Apply anyway.
How much does it cost?
Nothing. Attendance is free: each of the twenty participants is sponsored by a local business, and four meals are provided inside Downtown Pizza's normal hours.
Do I need a team or a finished idea?
No. Come with an idea, a problem — or neither yet. Friday night everyone gives a 60-second pitch without slides, the group votes, and teams of five form around the top ideas. Teams stay flat (no CEO), nothing is signed on site, and ideas stay with their creators.
What's the time commitment?
The full weekend: Friday 5:30–9pm, Saturday 9am–8pm, Sunday 11am–5pm. No partial attendance — teams depend on every member for all three days.
When will I hear back?
Applications are reviewed as they arrive, and every applicant is notified by email before the weekend.
What happens after I'm accepted?
Before the weekend you'll get the judging criteria and team ground rules. During it, every team logs at least 10 customer conversations by Saturday 4pm and works with mentors across 13 expertise areas. After it, 30-, 60- and 90-day check-ins with mentor office hours.
Are there prizes?
In-kind prizes only — no cash. Four judges score each team out of 100 on customer validation, business model, execution & prototype, and pitch & Q&A.
Can my business sponsor a founder?
Yes — twenty local businesses, $100 each, every sponsor tied to one participant by name, with recognition, a named seat at Sunday's showcase and an optional mentor seat. Use the sponsor inquiry form on the Founder Lab page.
Before you apply
01.Read the founder's guide firstStart a Business in Lake Wales, Florida covers the same ground the Lab works through in a weekend — validation, legal structure, licensing and your first 30 days.
Founder Lab
Be first in line when applications open.
A small weekend cohort for Lake Wales founders. Leave your email and we'll let you know the moment applications open — nothing else, no newsletter.