Why Distribution Matters More Than Product in the First 18 Months
Founders are taught to obsess over product. Refine the features. Improve the interface. Strengthen performance. Add differentiation. Polish the experience.…
JANUS Innovation Hub is a startup incubator based in San Diego,supporting a global community of first-generation, immigrant,and underrepresented founders, helping them build scalable,investor-ready startups.
Join a trusted network of angel investors supporting immigrant-led startups shaping the future through innovation and meaningful impact. At Janus Innovation Hub, we empower diverse founders by providing them with the resources, mentorship, and connections needed to succeed in today’s competitive landscape.
Founders are taught to obsess over product. Refine the features. Improve the interface. Strengthen performance. Add differentiation. Polish the experience.…
In the early stages of a startup, energy is high, belief is strong, and alignment feels natural. Co founders often…
In the first year of a startup, feedback is everywhere. Users comment. Customers complain. Advisors suggest. Investors react. Metrics fluctuate.…
In partnership with the Frist Center for Autism & Innovation at Vanderbilt University and Janus Innovation Hub, our incubation program is a six-month experience for early-stage startups building technology that supports neurodivergent individuals, their families, and the professionals who work with them.
This program is a strong fit if you meet all of the following criteria:
An early-stage startup (from idea with strong insight through pre-seed or seed)
Ready to engage with advisors, researchers, and partners in an intensive but founder-friendly program
Building a tech-enabled product (software, hardware, or a combination)
Open to feedback, iteration,
and evidence-informed development
You will join a curated cohort of founders working on related challenges, and get access to a structured support system that includes:
When reviewing applications, we look for:
You do not need to have everything figured out. You do need to show that you are serious, thoughtful, and ready to make progress.
Together with the Frist Center for Autism and Innovation, we aim to support founders developing meaningful technologies for neurodivergent individuals. This program is a core part of our commitment to advancing inclusive, community-centered innovation.
Bring your idea, your team, and your commitment to building for neurodivergent communities. Join the waitlist today to be considered for our Summer 2026 cohort. You can apply now, and we will reach out to shortlisted teams for interviews ahead of the summer launch.