Founder's Guide

Founder Lab · Feb. 26–28, 2027 · Downtown Pizza

Back a Lake Wales founder.

Founder Lab is a free, application-only startup weekend. Twenty participants of all ages are chosen by application — and each one is backed by a local business for $100. Every sponsor takes part in the weekend: mentoring, speaking, helping or judging.

20 available · one per participant

Founder Sponsor

$100

  • Tied to one participant by name — participants are chosen by application
  • Every sponsor takes part: mentor, speak, help or judge during the weekend
  • Website and event signage recognition
  • Public thank-you and a named seat at Sunday's showcase
  • One-page brief on your participant
  • 30-day check-in on their progress

Meals, prizes, supplies, expertise

In-kind Partner

Goods or services

  • Recognition on the website and at the event
  • Thank-you during the weekend program
  • Your product or service in front of 20 founders and 20 mentors

Limited · shaped with you

Presenting Partner

Let's talk

  • Top billing across the website and signage
  • A welcome moment at the opening and the showcase
  • Public updates at the 30-, 60- and 90-day check-ins

Sponsorships

Sponsor a founder for $100.

Twenty local businesses, each tied to one participant by name: website and signage recognition, a public thank-you and named seat at Sunday's showcase, a one-page participant brief, a 30-day check-in, and an optional mentor seat. Leave your details and we'll be in touch.

Every sponsor takes part — how will you? (pick at least one)

Want the full weekend picture? See the Founder Lab page or email email@jasonwade.com.