Founders at the University of Cambridge

ACCELERATING BRILLIANCE TOGETHER

300

experts supporting founders across 16 countries and 30 cities

70%

of whom are University of Cambridge alum, across 29 Colleges

35

sectors represented spanning deep tech, AI, health tech, sustainability and more

About the Community

University‑led innovation has a pivotal role to play in addressing society’s most complex challenges. Part of Founders at the University of Cambridge, the Community is a global network of experts who inspire the next generation of entrepreneurial minds – sharing perspective, opening doors and offering practical support as founders build and grow.

WHY?

Every expert in the Community brings something different through their journey, experience and perspective. Together, those contributions positively support our founders and help strengthen the long‑term impact of ideas emerging from Cambridge.

WHAT?

At the heart of the initiative, this diverse network of University of Cambridge alum, mentors, investors and industry leaders champion game-changing innovations. These experts have built companies themselves or supported others to do so, bringing grounded insight across sectors, stages and roles.

HOW?

Engagement is designed to be flexible, with different ways to get involved online or in person – from mentoring and introductions to events and founder sessions. We match opportunities to interests and availability, shaping the offer around what works best for everyone.

Community
Opportunities

SUPPORT THE NEXT GENERATION

Use your experience to support academic entrepreneurs, offering guidance as they navigate their journey.

EXPLORE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Stay close to early‑stage ventures and explore opportunities to invest or advise as they take shape.

BUILD RECOGNITION

Grow visibility within the Cambridge innovation ecosystem through trusted contribution and ongoing engagement.

STAY CLOSE TO TRENDS

Gain early insight into emerging technologies, research and sectors as ideas develop and move towards application.

CONNECT GLOBALLY

Build relationships with founders, investors and industry experts to extend your network and collaborate internationally.

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WAYS TO SUPPORT

MENTORS

Every company in our programmes is paired with a local or global Mentor who guides, challenges and supports the founding team. Mentors bring practical experience and perspective across building a business, working in‑person where local or online where global. Relationships are designed to be ongoing and light‑touch, shaped around what the company needs at that stage.

EXPERTS

Our programmes include topic‑specific sessions focused on key moments in building a deep tech company. We work with experienced operators who share real‑world insight across areas such as product–market fit, industry context, team building, commercialisation, diversity and sustainability. Experts typically contribute through at least one in‑person or drop‑in session per programme.

CONNECTORS

Connections can change the trajectory of a company. The Founders at the University of Cambridge Community brings together experienced founders, investors and industry experts who open doors where relevant – making introductions that help teams learn and accelerate faster.

Our expert community share our commitment to nurturing innovation and empowering visionary founders:  

CAN WE COUNT
YOU IN?

This is an opportunity to support early‑stage founders while staying close to emerging ideas, people and ventures connected to the University of Cambridge. If you would like to get involved, complete the form below and the team will be in touch to share more details and answer any questions.