How much funding do Global Startup Initiative companies receive?

Initial funding is independently determined by our investment partners based upon their criteria and may not be available to everyone in the program. In addition, the 3% equity that is given to us does not include funding.

From the moment we start talking, we determine how much funding is needed to take your company to the next level. Initially, you may receive up to $25,000 or we may determine that it is best to raise a much larger round.

What is the criteria for being accepted into the Global Startup Initiative?

There are many things we consider when reviewing companies for our program. We believe the strongest asset to any company is their team. So having an experienced or very strong team definitely places you onto the consideration block.

In addition, your product, idea, business model, or any traction/growth your company may have already received plays a major role in our decision process. We seek awesome products that are market disruptive, and prefer companies that are past the idea stage and already have a working prototype. Although, we’ll consider companies as early as an idea if the team proves to be strong enough to back it up.

Does my location make a difference for being accepted into the program?

No. Being located in the San Francisco, CA and New York areas are definitely a plus, but we’ll work with you no matter where you're located. We strongly encourage companies to apply regardless of their location.

Why does Advise.me take stock in my company?

By taking stock, we become your partner. Ultimately we take on the same risk and reward system that you do. It’s to our incentive that your company succeeds so stock motives us to do everything possible in favor of your company.

Is my company too big or not early stage enough to apply to the program?

Most likely not - we'll try to work with you at any stage if we believe we can add value. In some cases, for those that are not accepted, we take on a limited number of paid engagements. We do this because we know there are some compelling companies out there that do not meet the criteria of GSI, but could use our help (if you fall into this category, please see our Clients page for more information).

After applying to the program, should I contact any of the Advise.me team members directly?

Absolutely not – we receive a large number of applications and will certainly try to respond to everyone that applies. Reaching out to our team members directly may lower your chances of being accepted into the program as many team members may complain to us. Should you have any questions after submitting your application, please feel free to reach out via our Contact us form and we'll be sure to get back to you.

I applied to be part of the program, but never heard back from anyone. What should I do?

You can try contacting us via our Contact us form, but unfortunately we cannot respond back to everyone. Each day we receive a very large number of inquires, which makes it very difficult for us to respond to everyone. If we believe you or your company is a fit within our program, we’ll be sure to get back in touch with you when the time is right.

What do we look for in Advise.me Team Members?

We seek proven successful, accomplished, bright and talented individuals. We want to know that you can add value to the companies participating in our program. For us to know this, you must be able to prove your successes or talents. Being referred is a big plus as it may jump you ahead in the consideration process.

What type of commitment do we expect from our Team Members?

Should you be accepted as an Advise.me Team Member, you’ll decide the level of commitment you’re willing/able to contribute at the time you are presented with an opportunity from us. This is done on a case-by-case basis so you have the flexibility to commit as much as you like based on interest or if time allows it. Commitment could be as little as a phone call or as much as being actively involved with the participating company.