CIC will host 36 startups in need of ‘space, support and opportunity’ — for free

On Oct. 15, the Cambridge Innovation Center’s (CIC) Philadelphia outpost is opening submissions to its 2020 cohort of 36for75, its support program for young, mission-driven companies.

The name, inspired by CIC’s quarters inside 3675 Market St., hints at the program’s layout: Thirty-six handpicked Philly startups will be awarded a free membership to CIC for 75 business days, along with unspecified special programming and a chance to build their network.

36for75 is specifically looking for startups that are in need of “space, support and opportunity” and founded by entrepreneurs from “underrepresented communities,” per a press release.

While any type of company will be considered, those that work in categories not represented by existing CIC clients are especially encouraged to apply. That includes agtech, edtech, fintech and international companies, as well as those with founders over 40. In addition, CIC is eager to consider startups that “think about their mission’s local and global impact.”

One success story from the program, according to CIC: Game and app developer Nicodemus Madehdou’s company, JumpButton Studio, participated in the 2019 cohort while developing an app for people with memory loss. Through 36for75, he met Backstage Capital’s CIC-based Philly team and is now in talks with them to develop future work.

”We formed a connection,” Madehdou said, “and now we’re talking potential projects together.”

Applicants must submit a one-minute video answering one of the following questions to get in on this program:

• How is your idea going to change your industry’s landscape?
• How have you collaborated with your network to accelerate growth or build your business?
• How are you putting Philly on the map?

Want to make a more professional-looking video and meet the team behind the program all at once? Entrepreneurs are invited to submit in person using CIC equipment at the organization’s 20th global anniversary hosted at Venture Café (which will itself be celebrating a 10th anniversary) on Thursday, Nov. 7.

Apps will close on Nov. 15.