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The Factor Fellowship embodies the diversity, drive, and ambition of NYC – connecting early-career professionals with roles at fast-growing startups. Member Companies receive first access to high-achieving Factor Fellows from underrepresented backgrounds as well as connections to other top startups and investors.
Current early-career professionals from diverse backgrounds looking to change careers. After a selective application process, Factor pairs exceptional ability with startup ecosystem mentorship to prepare Fellows for careers in the innovation economy.
- Gain early access to high-achieving, emerging talent
- Join a network of like-minded startups and investors
- Contribute to building a strong innovation ecosystem that reflects NYC
- Gain access to exclusive events
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Members
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faq
Why should I apply for the Factor Fellowship?
The Factor Fellowship is an opportunity for you to explore a new career in the startup space. Our goal is to demystify the often opaque and insular world of venture-backed startups. The program will provide exposure to startup culture, training and mentorship from tech leaders, skill development, and career coaching. You’ll join a network of top talent and build your network while accessing jobs at venture-backed startups.
What types of programming should I expect during the 18-week fellowship?
The Factor Fellowship will provide an exposure to startup culture, training and mentorship from tech leaders, skill development, and career coaching via:
- Weekly AMAs with leading investors, operators, founders, and other VC / start-up leaders
- Biweekly, in-person Saturday morning workshops focused on identifying individual strengths, developing target industries / companies / roles, practicing elevator pitches, honing job search strategies and optimizing resume & LinkedIn
- 1:1 skill development and career coaching
- Informal networking events with founders, investors, and operators
What does the application process entail?
The 1st round asks for your contact information, resume, and cohort eligibility.
For the 2nd round, we will ask you to record two brief (<3 minute) videos in response to two prompts.
The 3rd round is a written questionnaire, which will help us to better understand your interest in working in startups and your transferable skills.
The 4th round is a 1-on-1 live 20 minute interview with a member of the Factor team over Zoom.
The final round is comprised of an in-depth, individual presentation to a panel of Factor team members and VCs.
When do the next round of applications open?
Applications for Spring 2025 are now closed. Applications for Fall 2025 will open in May 2025.
What is the time commitment of the Factor Fellowship?
The Factor Fellowship is a 18-week part-time program that requires participants to dedicate 4 to 6 hours per week to program activities.
How much does the Factor Fellowship Cost?
The Factor Fellowship is completely free for participants. Programming costs are offset by Member Company contributions and donations from VCs and startups.
When is the next Factor Fellowship Cohort?
The next cohort will take place in NYC over an 18 week period in Fall 2025. Applications for this cohort will open in May 2025.
Am I guaranteed a job at the end of the Factor Fellowship?
The ultimate objective of the Factor Fellowship is to help Fellows transition to roles within high-growth, venture-backed startups.
Fellows get insider access to job opportunities through Primary’s networks and direct support & coaching from the Factor team, but are expected to drive their own job search activities.
Graduating Fellows are not guaranteed jobs at the end of the program but will be given training, support, and access during and after the program to accelerate their transition.
I’m searching for an investing role. Is Factor the right program for me?
If you are looking to immediately transition to an investment role, Factor is likely not the best fit. The Fellowship focuses on pipelining mid-career professionals into operator roles.
While some Fellows do explore roles in venture, or aspire to become investors in the future, this program will not provide training to become a VC investor.
In our experience, many early-stage investors follow 1 of 2 paths: working as a founder or operator themselves, or coming up through traditional investment channels (investment banking, private equity, MBA program, etc).
How do I get involved as a Donor, Mentor, or Speaker?
We’re always looking for tech leaders willing to participate in and contribute to the Factor Fellowship experience. If you’re interested in getting involved, please reach out to info@factornyc.org.
As a company, how do I access Factor Fellows?
Member Companies get priority access to meet and hire Fellows via events, mentoring, and hosting opportunities throughout the program. To learn more about becoming a Member Company or to express interest in hiring Factor Fellows, reach out to info@factornyc.org.
How are Member Companies and VCs involved in the Factor Fellowship?
The Factor Fellowship has been developed in close partnership with Primary VC and other top NYC-based investors and startups. Member Companies play a significant role in the program experience, including Fellow selection, serving as mentors and speakers, hosting events, and hiring Fellows directly from the program.