JOIN THE VELA
FOUNDER NETWORK
JOIN THE VELA
The VELA Founder Network is the nation’s leading community of entrepreneurs providing alternatives to conventional schooling.
Network members have exclusive access to funding opportunities, resources, events, and the collective knowledge of thousands of entrepreneurs across the country.
Who are VELA Founders?
VELA is a community of visionary founders building sustainable businesses that revolutionize education. About half of the founders in the VELA Founder Network operate small learning environments and the other half are ecosystem builders offering direct services and support for the unconventional schooling space.
They are passionate founders who:
- Are responsive to the unique values, priorities, and education practices desired by families.
- Have translated their ideas into concrete programs, resources, and solutions that meet an existing demand.
- Are accountable to the families they serve.
- Have a pathway to financial viability so that their program can exist without reliance on philanthropic or government funding.
What types of programs do VELA Founders operate?
Unconventional Learning Environments
VELA founders who lead learning environments creatively reimagine time, space, and labor to serve learners opting for an alternative to traditional schooling (e.g., learners who are not enrolled in public, charter, or traditional private schools). These resourceful entrepreneurs offer access to low-cost private solutions without dependence on public funding or outside interests. They are champions of autonomy, ensuring that the focus remains on delivering quality education tailored to the unique needs of each family.
Ecosystem Builders
VELA founders who serve as ecosystem builders operate programs and services that provide content, tools, and resources to support founders leading learning environments and the families who choose alternatives to conventional schooling. Their work strengthens the unconventional schooling space and bolsters its sustainability, ultimately empowering families to take charge of their children’s educational journey.
How do I join the VELA Founder Network?
Applications are currently being accepted to join the Founder Network. Interested founders can complete an application that will assess alignment with VELA’s values and goals. You can read more about our eligibility criteria here.
VELA funding is exclusively reserved for founders in the VELA Founder Network that are enabling families to pursue alternatives to conventional schooling as their primary learning experience.
Apply.
Before you apply, we strongly suggest that you:
- View our updated eligibility criteria and application information to see if you are a fit for the VELA Founder Network.
- Watch this video about joining the VELA Founder Network.
- If you have received a Micro grant, you’re already part of the Founder Network! Please reach out to support@vela.org for more information.
- If you are currently part of the Founder Network and have a new venture, please reach out to grants@vela.org for guidance.
The Founder Network application is open and applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis. Click the link below to review our criteria and apply.