Our program is scheduled to commence in May 2024 and will run through September 2024. It is designed to provide comprehensive support throughout this period to ensure your startup's success. While most of the program can be completed remotely, we recommend in-person participation during the first 2 weeks during the idea validation and shaping, and the last 2 weeks to fine-tune your pitch for the launch day and facilitating in-person connections within our network for ongoing support. While not mandatory, this in-person presence is highly recommended for maximizing the program's benefits.

All our programs are designed to be a part-time program. The time commitment requires a minimum of 20 hours of work per week, on average, depending on factors including your idea, technology and team size. Participating teams are required to attend weekly sessions totalling upto three and a half hours. The sessions will have between five and ten hours of assignment/task work that needs to be completed before the following weeks mentoring session. If a participating Founder is also working on a prototype or some other aspect of the business, then the time commitment can be much greater. It is recommended but not mandatory, to have at least one team member with full-time commitment within the team.

The majority of our program activities will take place virtually, allowing participants from anywhere to engage. However, certain key events and engagements will be held in the Tampa Bay region which will be scheduled to take place during your in-person attendance during the first and last two weeks of the program. We highly encourage candidates both from outside the Tampa Bay region and across the United States to apply and take advantage of the opportunities offered by the program.

Our programs primarily focuses on technology and technology-enabled businesses that are product and/or service based. While this includes tech startups, it extends to hardware, as well as traditional businesses like those in the food, e-commerce, and brick-and-mortar sectors. The key criterion is that the business must have the potential to scale through technology. However, we typically do not accept founders looking to establish non-scalable service-based companies, such as consultancies and agencies. Our goal is to support ventures with the capacity for substantial growth and innovation through technology.

The program fee is $1,500 for a startup team. This fee covers the entire 16-week program for the entire team, with a maximum of 4 individuals per team. Whether you're a solo founder or part of a team, this fee ensures that you have access to all program benefits and resources.

We do not charge an application fee. Our programs are designed to be accessible to all qualified applicants.

To qualify for the student scholarship, your team must include at least one member who is currently a student at the time of application. The student team member(s) must be a currently enrolled student at an accredited educational institution. Once accepted for the program, you will be required to provide proof of your student status, such as a valid student ID or other relevant documentation. Once your student status is verified, you'll be eligible for the scholarship. It's our way of supporting and encouraging aspiring student entrepreneurs on their startup journey.

We offer a FULL refund of your Program Fee for your first Debut Labs program, provided that you withdraw before the start of the third week. This gives you a risk-free opportunity to explore the program for the initial two weeks. All refund requests are typically processed within a few weeks of your dropout date. Your satisfaction and commitment to the program are important to us, and we aim to make the process straightforward for your peace of mind.

Yes, you can participate in our program remotely. We understand the diverse locations and circumstances of our participants, and we've designed our program to accommodate remote engagement. While there are in-person requirements(not mandatory) during specific weeks of the program, the majority of our activities and resources are accessible virtually, allowing you to participate from wherever you are located.

Yes, absolutely! We welcome applications from entrepreneurs who have already begun their startup building process. Our programs are tailored to support startups at various early stages of development, including those that are already in progress. We believe our resources, mentorship and networking opportunities can help you accelerate the process and take it to the next level. Please feel free to apply and share details about your current startup when submitting your application.

You do not need to be a resident of the United States to participate in the program. However, we do recommend having at least one team member located in the United States during the program, particularly for the in-person requirements (although it's not mandatory). This allows for a more immersive experience during those specific weeks. We welcome applications from both local and international candidates and are committed to working together to ensure a rewarding experience, regardless of your location.

Yes, you are welcome to submit multiple ideas for consideration. However, please ensure that each idea is submitted as a separate application. Debut Labs places a stronger emphasis on the individuals rather than the specific business idea. The participating team must select one idea to turn into a startup during the 16-week program.