Entrepreneurs are up against some difficult odds, but it doesn’t have to be that way. According to Small Business Trends, just over 50% of startups make it to their fifth year, with 29% of them noting that the reason for failure was a lack of sufficient funding. This doesn’t have to be you!
Flying Saucer Studio’s mission is to support positive impact projects while helping them reach their goals. And, seeing as it’s hard to reach your business goals without the proper funding, we’ve created the Flying Saucer Grant.
Keep reading to find out what it is, who we’re looking for, how it can benefit you, and how to apply.
What is the Flying Saucer Grant?
Okay, let’s dive into the money first. Figuratively, of course! There (unfortunately) aren’t any money-filled swimming pools around here. $10,000 might sound like a lot, or a little, depending on how you look at it and what your project’s all about — but we know it can go a long way!
The idea is that, with this kind of support, a passion project can quickly gain traction and then confidently grow towards their first Series A raise. How? The $10,000 comes in the form of services instead of cash, as that’s what’s most startups and projects actually need to succeed. More hands on deck. More expertise. More momentum.
The services included in the grant help early-stage projects and companies to reach their goals. We believe that this kind of help can allow companies to focus on making a positive impact, faster.
Now, why $10,000? We’re glad you asked! We work with a lot of small business owners and have a bit of entrepreneurial experience under our belts as well, so we know that this is roughly what a standard project needs to get off the ground and start showing results before a Series A.
This includes everything from creating a website and product design, to investing in quality branding, app design, and a tried-and-true strategy for growth.
Who are we looking for?
We’re interested in working with innovative teams who are searching for creative solutions to some of the world’s biggest problems.
If you’re involved in a project that aims to make major positive change, then we’re looking for you! However, there are a few other criteria that will help you stand out amongst the competition, and for us to define the projects we pick.
If you’ve got any of the following going on, then it’s likely that we’re interested in working with you:
- A clear mission and high potential for positive impact.
- A clear definition of your initial audience or market.
- An eagerness to stand out, break the mould, and find a creative approach.
- A clear idea of how the grant can and would be used to the best effect.
- A clear way to track results and measure success.
Most of all, we’re looking for businesses, projects, and people who are open to solutions— especially out of the box ones! If you’re the kind of entrepreneur who doesn’t want to stay in the same lane as your competitors and you’re eager to stand out, then this grant is for you.
Of course, there are some questions you’ll need to answer first. But they're fun, we promise. Check them out by accessing our online application here
Once you’ve filled out the form, our panel of creatives, executives, and investors will review the applications and select a different winner each quarter. Good luck! But the fun doesn’t stop there. Even if you aren’t selected, you’re still a winner...
What if I don’t win the grant?
If you don’t win the grant, don’t freak out. It might sound a bit millennial, but there truly are no losers here. We mean it, though. Projects that don’t get selected for the grant will still win a few other things.
Like what, you ask? Any company or project that applies will get access to our special perks, which include:
- Special FS Studio pricing
- Discount on the Founders Master Class Program
- We share your application to a pool of investors
- A free review of your pitch deck
- 1-hour free consultation on your business strategy
Sounds like a great deal, doesn’t it? That’s because it is.
Are you part of a startup that’s interested in creative and adventurous solutions to illustrate your social mission? Do you think you have at least most of your ducks in a row and are ready for some serious growth? Click here to access the application form and apply for the Flying Saucer Grant today - the first grant recipient was announced on February 15, 2020, and another company will be chosen every quarter.