Draft:Blockchain Founders Group

Blockchain Founders Group GmbH (BFG) is an early-stage startup accelerator founded in 2021. BFG is offering comprehensive programs for startup acceleration in the blockchain and Web3 space.

History
In 2021, BFG launched its startup incubation program BFG Superstars, in which it collaborates with institutions such as the Frankfurt School Blockchain Center of the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management, the International Token Standardization Association (ITSA), and the Digital Euro Association (DEA) to support the next generation of entrepreneurs in the web3 sector.

The 2nd season of BFG Superstars started in 2022 and the collaboration with educational institutions such as the University of Warwick was expanded. Within the blockchain and Web3 space the program focused on entrepreneurs passionate about Decentralized Finance (DeFi), Non-fungible Token (NFT), Metaverse, Internet of Things (IoT), Bitcoin Lightning, and CO2 tokenization business models.

In 2023, Sarah Gottwald joined BFG as the new Managing Director of the firm. Sarah is an experienced executive with previous leadership roles at BMW and she is on board of the International Token Standardization Association (ITSA). Further, BFG participated in a consortium of leading organizations from across Europe with the initiative for a tokenized Europe by 2025. The consortium consists of the Office for Financial Innovation and Digitization (SFID), the Liechtenstein Bankers Association (LBA), VP Bank and the Blockchain Founders Group. More partnerships in 2023, including PARSIQ, to give developers easier access to blockchain-based data.

In 2024, the company launches its 5th cohort and offer two additional programs in partnership with the Algorand Foundation and Concordium to offer a total of four accelerator programs: BFG Superstars, BFG Adrenaline, BFG x Algorand Accelerator, BFG x Concordium Accelerator. At the beginning of 2024, BFG has a track record of building and financially supporting over 50 blockchain startups.

Programs
The Blockchain Founders Group interviews and selects multiple batches of blockchain startups per year. The startups participate in a 8-12 week programs where they receive up to €120,000 in funding as well as expert mentoring, masterclasses, and networking opportunities. The programs are completely virtual, free of charge and in English.

Accelerator programs offered by the Blockchain Founders Group, all focused on the blockchain and Web3 sector:


 * BFG Adrenaline: A blockchain-agnostic program, focused on startups in the MVP stage.
 * BFG x Algorand Accelerator: Focused on startups building on the Algorand blockchain.
 * BFG x Concordium Accelerator: Focused on startups building on the Concordium blockchain.

During the programs, startups have the opportunity to collaborate with BFG's extensive network of experts and industry leaders. This collaboration provides insights, connections, and potential partnerships that can further fuel the startup's growth. The program concludes with a Demo Day, where participants showcase their progress and pitch their projects to potential investors and partners, opening doors to funding opportunities and strategic collaborations.

Application and Selection
Interested applicants can apply online. The selection process is highly competitive, with several hundret applicants for recent cohorts. There are no participation fees for either program, making them accessible to aspiring entrepreneurs.

Program Curriculum
The accelerator programs offer comprehensive guidance and training to entrepreneurs in their very early phases. The curriculum focuses on critical areas such as effective product marketing, team optimization, business model refinement, and achieving product/market fit. Participants engage in regular meetings, mentorship sessions, and group discussions to enhance their skills and prepare for the challenges of the blockchain industry.

Demo Day and Funding
The programs culminate in an annual on-site event at BFG's headquarters in Neustadt a.d. Weinstraße, Germany. During this event, participating startups showcase their business and technology prototypes to BFG's extensive network of mentors, advisors, partners, and investors. Startups that successfully complete the programs and impress with their pitches may receive funding and access to ongoing advice and support from BFG and its network.

Notable alumni companies

 * Particula
 * meCash
 * Clamp
 * Me Protocol
 * Catax
 * Digitalsocial.id