The Pearce Summer Fellows Program 

Applications open through March 31st, 2025 | Apply Here! 

Turn your groundbreaking B2B software idea into a reality this summer! The Pearce Summer Fellows Program isn’t just another startup program — it’s your launchpad into Boston’s thriving tech ecosystem, powered by Underscore VC’s proven track record of turning academic innovation into market success.
Duration: The official program runs from June 9th through August 15th, 2025. That said, it is our sincere hope that you’ll be a lifelong partner and friend of the firm!

Why Underscore VC?
We’re not your typical VC firm. Just ask the startup founders we’ve backed. Based in the heart of Boston, we’ve revolutionized early-stage investing with our community-driven model to venture. Inspired by the principles of open source software — community, collaboration, and transparency — Underscore pioneered an “open source” investing model, sharing both returns and expertise with our Core Community of expert business builders. With $300M under management, we're deeply committed to Boston's innovation landscape, investing half our capital right here in our backyard. Even better? 30% of our founders emerged from Boston's world-class academic institutions — just like you.

What You’ll Get

• Flexible Funding at Your Fingertips: Whether you're testing your first hypothesis or ready to scale, we'll meet you where you are with flexible financing that makes sense for your stage with a minimum $50K uncapped SAFE.
• Your New HQ in Historic Old City Hall: Work alongside ambitious founders and teams in our Boston office. This isn't just desk space – it's your portal to serendipitous connections.
• Direct Line to Prospect Customers: Tap into our extensive Core Community for targeted introductions to potential customers, partners, and industry leaders.
• World-Class Advisory Firepower: Get battle-tested insights and advice from seasoned operators and founders from powerhouses like Toast, Klaviyo, Amazon, and Anthropic.
• Dedicated VC Mentorship: Regular one-on-one sessions with our investment team every two weeks, plus open-door access for impromptu guidance. Get real-time feedback on your business model, fundraising approach, and strategic decisions. We’re here for you.
• Join a Powerful Community: Become part of a vibrant ecosystem of experts and fellow founders. The Underscore VC Core Community is here to support you for life. Want to see the power of the Core Community in action? Check out our Core Summit highlight reel.

Who We're Looking For

• Academic Innovators: Current students (undergraduate through PhD), researchers, or professors from any Boston-area academic institution. At least one founding team member must have an academic affiliation. Whether you're at the idea stage or already have users, we want to hear from you. It’s never too early. The program offers flexible financing to meet you where you are.
  
• Spirited Leaders: This program is named in honor of John Pearce, Underscore VC's beloved Co-founder who was a tireless advocate for young entrepreneurs. In his memory, we seek founders who embody his spirit of relentless optimism, intellectual curiosity, and unwavering commitment to transforming bold ideas into world-changing ventures.

Apply Here!

Want to learn more about the program? Join us for an information session on Wednesday, March 19th at Underscore VC HQ - RSVP here! Please note that we'll also be hosting invite-only information sessions on a handful of Boston academic campuses.