HackFwd

HackFwd was a pre-seed investment program focused on providing funding and mentorship to European entrepreneurs with bold and impactful ideas in science and technology. It operated from 2011 to 2014, aiming to nurture early-stage startups by providing resources to help them develop prototypes and secure further funding.

The program differed from traditional accelerators in that it focused on funding individuals or very small teams before they had a fully formed company. HackFwd provided a stipend, housing, and access to a network of mentors and investors, allowing participants to dedicate themselves to developing their ideas without the immediate pressure of generating revenue.

The objective was to foster innovation and create a vibrant ecosystem for technology startups in Europe. HackFwd sought out ambitious individuals with backgrounds in various scientific and technological fields, rather than specifically focusing on typical software or internet startups. The program aimed to identify and support potentially groundbreaking ventures that might not otherwise receive early-stage funding.

After the initial program period, HackFwd ceased operation. The reasons cited included the changing landscape of early-stage funding and a shift in focus by the organization's founders. While it operated, it played a role in supporting a number of startups across diverse areas of technology.