INSEAD AI Venture Lab is accepting applications for AI Founder Sprint 2027, a free, 10-week virtual program for entrepreneurs looking to build and grow businesses with AI. Applications close on December 1, 2026.
The program will run from January 27 to April 2, 2027, bringing together early-stage founders from around the world for AI training, mentorship, practical workshops, and investor sessions.
The Sprint is open to founders across industries, including those who are not building AI products but want to use artificial intelligence to improve their operations, products, or business models.
Participation is free, with no equity requirement. The program is conducted entirely online and does not require founders to relocate.
What Does the AI Founder Sprint Offer?
The 10-week program combines practical AI training with support from entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts.
Selected founders will receive:
- AI training and frameworks: Research-backed approaches to integrating AI into startup development, operations, and growth.
- Expert-led study groups: Small-group sessions focused on applying AI tools and methods to participants’ businesses.
- Mentorship: Guidance from experienced founders, investors, and specialists in product development, go-to-market strategy, and fundraising.
- Masterclasses and workshops: Sessions covering AI adoption, entrepreneurship, business strategy, and company building.
- Founder community: Curated peer groups supported by Community Leads, with regular check-ins and opportunities to exchange feedback.
- Investor access: Fundraising-focused sessions during VC Week, including opportunities for selected startups to receive feedback on their pitches.
- Startup perks: Access to partner credits, software discounts, and other resources.
The program lists AWS Activate, Google Cloud, NVIDIA, Aspire, Carta, Stripe, Notion, HubSpot, Deel, and Cooley GO among its benefits partners.
The exact value and eligibility conditions of individual partner offers are not publicly specified.
How the Program Works
The Sprint is divided into four stages.
Weeks 1-2: Onboarding. Founders meet their peer groups, learn about the program’s frameworks, and prepare to apply AI to their businesses. The expected commitment is approximately four to five hours per week.
Weeks 3-7: Build. Participants work on their startups through expert-led study groups, masterclasses, and mentorship sessions. The expected commitment is approximately two to three hours per week.
Week 8: VC Week. Investors share insights into fundraising and investment decisions. Selected startups can also receive direct feedback on their pitches.
Weeks 9-10: Test and Refine. Founders improve their businesses based on the work completed during the Sprint and prepare for Demo Day.
Demo Days will take place after the program concludes. The organizers have not yet announced the dates or venues.
Who Can Apply?
AI Founder Sprint 2027 welcomes entrepreneurs from around the world, including those at the ideation, planning, and execution stages.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old. No INSEAD affiliation is required, and founders do not need to be developing an AI-native product.
The organizers assess applicants based on their vision, motivation, and commitment to participating in the program.
Sessions are conducted in English and scheduled to accommodate different time zones. Recordings are available for founders who cannot attend live.
Application Timeline
- Application deadline: December 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM GMT+8
- Selection notifications: Early January 2027
- Program dates: January 27 – April 2, 2027
- Demo Days: Dates to be announced
- Format: Online
- Cost: Free
- Equity: None
Founders can apply through the AI Founder Sprint 2027 website.