Cardano Joins Forces with Draper University to Empower Blockchain Founders

The Cardano Foundation and Draper University launched a five-week accelerator to support 20 blockchain startups with funding and mentorship.
Startups will pitch to investors for seed funding, aiming to advance Bitcoin DeFi, blockchain-powered research, and entertainment applications.

A major collaboration between the Cardano Foundation and Draper University has launched an ambitious initiative to accelerate blockchain-driven innovation. Both organizations introduced the Cardano x Draper University Founder Residency Program, a five-week accelerator aimed at advancing blockchain technology.

The program begins on April 14, 2025, at Draper University’s Silicon Valley campus, welcoming 20 startups focused on expanding decentralized finance (DeFi), decentralized science (DeFi), and entertainment.

With a strong focus on widespread adoption, each startup will receive an equity-free grant of 42,000 ADA to support development. The initiative prioritizes advancements in Bitcoin DeFi, groundbreaking scientific research powered by blockchain, and transformative applications in entertainment. Participants will gain access to strategic mentorship, funding opportunities, and direct connections with investors.

Tim Draper, founder of Draper University and a well-known venture capitalist, expressed his enthusiasm about the program, stating:

We are very excited to partner with Cardano on the Draper University x Cardano Founder Residency and support UTxO-based startups building the future of Bitcoin DeFi.

Investor Pitch Day—Seed Funding & Strategic Partnerships on the Horizon

One of the residency’s most significant aspects is Investor Pitch Day, where startups will showcase their innovations before a panel of venture capitalists and blockchain investors. The platform allows teams to secure seed funding and form long-term strategic partnerships, offering a crucial stepping stone for promising blockchain entrepreneurs.

Beyond funding, participants will benefit from guidance provided by seasoned entrepreneurs, blockchain engineers, and key figures in the Cardano ecosystem. This access to expert mentorship is expected to accelerate project development and enhance market readiness.

The collaboration reflects a broader ambition to mainstream blockchain technology by developing applications that are not only innovative but also easy to use. The initiative aligns with Cardano’s long-term mission to build a secure, scalable, and inclusive blockchain ecosystem.

Draper University’s Track Record in Web3 Innovation

Founded in 2012 by Tim Draper, Draper University has cemented itself as a leading force in entrepreneurial education and startup acceleration. The university has a proven track record in Web3 investment, having worked with major blockchain protocols like Tezos, Algorand, and VeChain. It has also collaborated with government agencies exploring blockchain solutions, further establishing its influence in the space.

On the other side of the partnership, the Cardano Foundation continues to play a pivotal role in blockchain’s global development. As a Swiss-based, independent organization, the foundation is committed to growing the Cardano ecosystem by supporting research, fostering innovation, and engaging with the broader blockchain community.

With applications closing in March 2025, the countdown has begun for blockchain founders eager to take their ideas to the next level. Entrepreneurs looking to join the program can find more details on the official Draper University website. The initiative is poised to be a game-changer, unlocking new possibilities for blockchain’s future.

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