FAQs

FAQs

• How do I start a conversation about Engine Ventures supporting my company?

  Start the conversation by letting us know a bit about your team, the company, milestones reached, your short-term goals, and how you think Engine Ventures can help you reach them. If we think we can be helpful, we’ll reach out to have a more in-depth conversation with you.

• Is Engine Ventures exclusive to MIT teams and technologies?

  No. We are agnostic to academic origins. Our mission is to support Tough Tech startups no matter the background. We have backed companies with no association with MIT.

• Will I have to be located in Boston/Cambridge to work with Engine Ventures?

  Given the nature of the types of companies Engine Ventures invests into and the challenges they face, we believe we can be most helpful to companies that are situated nearby. Depending on the opportunity and experience of the team, we are still open to investing in companies based in other regions.

• At what company stage should I come talk with Engine Ventures?

  Any stage! We’ve worked with founders pre-incorporation, in the seed phase, and early in market.

• We’ve already taken some funding. Can I still apply for support?

  Absolutely. Engine Ventures is generally the first investor in a company, but we understand that the road of building a company is long and unique. If you’ve taken in some initial funding, it might still make sense for you and your company to join The Engine community.

• How much does The Engine Ventures invest? What equity stake will Engine Ventures take?

  Investment amounts will depend on the sector and the unique characteristics of each company. As such, the associated equity stake will be different for each company.

• Will Engine Ventures sign an NDA to protect my idea?

  No. Funding sources like Engine Ventures are pitched too many ideas to enter into NDAs with applicants or prospective portfolio companies.

• What if I need maker or lab space? Are these facilities available?

  Yes. Companies can rent lab space and office from the The Engine Accelerator at 750 Main Street, with over 150,000 sq ft of lab, office, and industrial space for Tough Tech companies. This includes facilities for bio labs, chem labs, a machine shop, and open industrial space.

• Does it cost anything to be in The Engine Accelerator buildings?

  There are costs associated with co-locating your company at The Engine Accelerator's 750 Main or 501 Mass. Ave spaces. (rent, various lab expenses, etc…).

• Can I work out of The Engine Accelerator's building if I’m not a selected startup?

  The Engine Accelerator wants to build a collaborative community of Tough Tech companies so their space is not limited to only the companies selected for investment. If you have more than two full-time employees working on your idea or company in a tough tech field and are interested in working out of our space, please contact us to start the conversation.

• We’re an established company past the startup stage, but we love what you’re doing here. How can we get involved?

  Awesome to hear it! The best way for you to get involved is to help the next generation of Tough Tech entrepreneurs. If you can offer mentorship, expertise, equipment, or other facilities, please contact us to get involved.