Application FAQ

Process

How do I apply to an SOSV Startup Development Program?

Please submit an application to one of our startup development programs (HAX or IndieBio) via our Application Portal. Applications are reviewed by investment teams on a rolling basis.

You are able to start and save an application at any time and return to it later to submit when you are ready.

Can I apply to more than one SOSV Startup Development Program?

Yes, if your company is a fit for multiple programs you may apply to more than one program.

How does the application process work?

After our initial review, our investment teams email a select number of startups to begin a standard diligence process via a series of screening calls. Our screening calls will cover introductions, your 10-15 minute pitch (including materials). We will look to discuss your founding team, technology, addressable market, competitive landscape, and proposed technical development plan for the SOSV program. We also work with our network of experts across technology fields and industries to help us review applications. 

This process can vary from several days to multiple weeks depending on the amount of diligence our team needs to go through to understand your startup. 

Our team works hard to maintain transparency and clarity throughout the interview and diligence process. If a startup begins interviews and diligence, but we don’t choose to go forward, we will give clear feedback on why we didn’t see a fit. 

Please note, due to the large number of applications, we cannot give feedback to startups that do not make it past the initial evaluation.

Applicants

What kind of companies are you looking for?

At IndieBio we look for deep tech companies aimed at solving intractable or difficult problems that will impact 1B+ members of humanity. Human and Planetary Health is our mission. We see biology as a technology that can be applied across all verticals which can include therapeutics, the future of food, biomaterials, biological tools, diagnostics, synthetic biology, genomics, and data analysis to just name a few areas.

At HAX we look for deep tech companies building products for validated problems in three main areas: (1) B2B: These companies use sensor data to improve communications and unlock efficiencies for businesses, create new industrial processes or build automation for a variety of use cases. (2) Healthcare: These companies are solving pressing problems to make healthcare more effective, accessible and affordable using data and novel treatment protocols. (3) Consumer: These companies are using a combination of sensors, connectivity and unique insight to solve pressing customer problems or creating novel experiences. 

I don’t have a company, just an idea or maybe a half built prototype, can I apply?

All you need to apply is a well thought out idea with the technology worked out at least in principle and a good team (two co-founders minimum). We’ll help you with all the rest.

I’m a single founder. Can I apply by myself, or do you only accept teams?

If you are a single founder, we suggest you apply, but understand that we will need you to find at least one other co-founder for us to fund your company and bring you to the program. All startups must have at least two people during SOSV programs (though it is normal to travel to conferences, visit customers, and check in back home.)

We look for great, balanced teams who have a full range of skills. We strongly advise you to seek co-founders who balance your skill-set.

Can I apply if our company or founders are not from the US? Can you help with Visa/immigration issues?

Yes. Anyone from anywhere can apply. Some programs ask that you participate in-person (HAX – Newark & Shenzhen, IndieBio – New York & San Francisco). This will be clarified during the interview process. Once accepted, we can help with legal/immigration issues. In order to attract investment, you should incorporate your company in the U.S.

Can I apply if I already have funding?

Yes, we have accepted teams that have previously raised funding through venture capital, angel investors, or grants. Regardless of previous funding, SOSV program investment terms are non-negotiable.