Fearless’ Hutch is searching for a few digital services companies to support

Inner Harbor-based SaaS company Fearless founded Hutch in 2019 to assist civic tech startups.

Since then, the incubator has expanded its portfolio to include 20 companies across various disciplines. The Hutch class of 2024 began with eight startups preparing to enter the world of government contracts earlier this year.

Program Manager Stephanie Chin told Technical.ly that Hutch seeks companies that fulfill any of a variety of technological services for government agencies.

“We’re really excited by companies with expert capabilities in things like generative AI, cloud service integration, mobile app development, data science, data center modernization and other capabilities much needed within government contracting,” she said. “We’re keen to help companies like that grow their impact in working with government.”

The Small Business Administration 8(a) business development program, which recently underwent some major changes, is a nine-year initiative designed to support businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Terry Bazemore Jr., a RealLIST Engineer and the cofounder of cybersecurity company Ey3 Technologies, pursued that certification while participating in Hutch. While that status can help, getting it doesn’t mean federal contracts just fall in a company’s lap.

Still, the 24-month Hutch program aims to help companies navigate common barriers with public sector requirements, classifications and budget approvals. Hutch cohort members participate in monthly sessions covering topics such as procurement, civic engagement and strategic planning.

“Prospective cohort members can look forward to the strong community built within Hutch, mentorship and coaching by Fearless, and really taking a focused approach to scaling their business,” Chin said.

The manager added that Hutch has a focus on further building an ecosystem for civic tech startups.

“The connectedness and community between Hutch companies is a huge part of the program, and we’ve seen how this translates to better partnerships and a sense of belonging for entrepreneurs who previously felt really overwhelmed or even isolated in trying to navigate being business owners, especially in govcon,” she said.

Applications are now open for the 2025 cohort. Prospective applicants must attend one of five mandatory information sessions between mid-October and early November to apply for the cohort.

Apply for the next Hutch class and sign up for an information session