Venture Nurture Program
The Janus Venture Nurture Program (VNP) is a specialized initiative designed to help first-generation immigrant founders take their startup ideas from concept to MVP and secure their first round of funding within 6 to 9 months. The program offers comprehensive guidance on product development, marketing strategy, and customer discovery—helping entrepreneurs refine their ideas, understand their target markets, and build solutions that address real customer needs. With a strong focus on customer discovery, we ensure founders validate their product’s potential through in-depth research and direct engagement with their target audience.
In addition to providing expert mentorship, the VNP offers access to development services that help transform ideas into fully functioning prototypes. While we assist with the technical side, our primary focus is on shaping the business and marketing aspects of each startup. Founders receive ongoing support in crafting compelling business plans, building their brand identity, and creating investor-ready pitches. We also facilitate connections with investors, help navigate early funding opportunities, and open doors to key industry events and competitions.
By the end of the program, participants will have a validated MVP, a clear go-to-market strategy, and the tools they need to approach their first round of funding with confidence. The Janus VNP provides a structured yet flexible path, helping immigrant founders overcome unique challenges and build ventures that can scale successfully in the global market.
FAQ
We're like a launchpad for big dreamers and doers. We help turn wild ideas into real businesses, especially for first-gen immigrants. Think of us as your startup fairy godparents—we've got the cash, connections, and know-how to make magic happen.
It's the brainchild of Aras Sheikhi and Mostafa Afkhamizadeh. Aras is a first-gen immigrant himself, so he gets the struggle. They wanted to knock down those pesky barriers that keep great ideas from becoming great businesses.
We've got mentorship from people who've been there and done that, help with building your product, funding to get you off the ground, matchmaking for co-founders, and even marketing support.
We typically work with startups for about 6–9 months. It's like a startup boot camp, but way more fun and with fewer pushups.
No, we're not picky. If you've got a killer idea with potential, we're all ears. Tech, fashion, food, whatever—if it's innovative and could make waves, we're interested.
Absolutely! We've got a global squad, and we love diverse perspectives. As long as you've got the great idea and the drive to make it happen, we don't care where you're from.
Easy peasy. Just head to our website, find the "Contact Us" section, and fill out the form. Tell us all about your big idea—don't be shy!
It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on how many applications we're swimming in. But don't worry, if we like what we see, we'll definitely give you a shout!
Think of it like a dating app, but for finding your business soulmate. We get to know you, then play matchmaker with potential partners who complement your skills. It's like business chemistry!
We've got different levels of funding. For just testing out your idea, we might throw you $2,000 - $5,000. If things look promising, we could invest $20,000 - $100,000 to really get you going.
For the bigger investments, yes, we might take a small slice (usually 2-5%). But, a small piece of a big pie is better than all of no pie, right?
We've got a dream team of mentors like David Lundgren (tech wizard), Vahid Taghikhani (professor extraordinaire), and Alireza Boloorchi (AI guru). These professionals have been around the block and are ready to share their experiences.
We've got your back! We can point you in the right direction for company registration, legal advice, and even protecting your big ideas.
Well, hopefully by then you're ready to spread your wings and fly! But don't worry, we don't just kick you out of the nest. We'll help you prep for bigger funding rounds and connect you with the right people to take your business to the next level.