VISIONARIES

ALUMNI NETWORK

A founder’s growth doesn’t stop at graduation—and we’re committed to walking alongside them every step of the way. The Visionaries Alumni Network extends the momentum of Visible Hands and NYCEDC programs, offering long-term support, community, and opportunity for every entrepreneur who continues building toward their vision. Powered by NYCEDC and operated by Visible Hands and Main Street Assembly.

In partnership with

Ongoing Access to a Thriving Founder Network

As a Visionaries Alumni Network founder, you'll stay connected to a dynamic community of entrepreneurs who’ve graduated from NYCEDC-supported programs. From peer networking and cohort meetups to collaboration opportunities, this ever-growing alumni network connects entrepreneurs to each other, to talent, to customers, and to capital.

Tailored Resources and Strategic Support

Benefit from continued access to resources that help your venture scale. This includes connections to expert partners, mentorship opportunities, and business development support designed to help you navigate the next stages of growth beyond early fellowship programming.

Enhanced Visibility and Growth Pathways Across NYC

Being part of the Visionaries Alumni Network gives your company visibility within New York City’s deep innovation ecosystem. You’ll have ongoing access to programs, partners, and ecosystem pathways — opening doors to new collaborations, funding opportunities, and strategic connections that help accelerate your business’s impact and growth.

Frequently asked questions

What you might be asking yourself.

Who is eligible to join the Visionaries Alumni Network?

Eligibility is open to alumni of NYCEDC-supported startup and innovation programs. This includes, but isn’t limited to, graduates of the Founder Fellowship, City Fellowship, Fashion Manufacturing Initiative, NYC Mass Timber Studio, Game Design Future Lab, Scale Ready Studio by Women.NYC, Offshore Wind Innovation Hub, and other NYCEDC initiatives.

Is there an application process?

No - upon the completion of eligible programming, the Visible Hands team will provide founders with guidance for onboarding into the network.

What kinds of support does the program offer?

Alumni benefit from ongoing access to a founder community, tailored resources, mentorship opportunities, and strategic connections that help founders scale their companies and deepen ties within New York City’s innovation ecosystem.

Do I have to be part of the Visible Hands VHNYC Founder Fellowship to join?

No. While graduates of the Founder Fellowship are eligible, the alumni program also welcomes alumni from other NYCEDC-funded entrepreneurship initiatives, making it a broader support network for founders across multiple programs.

Who operates the Founder Alumni Program?

The Founder Alumni Program is operated by Visible Hands in partnership with Main Street Assembly, two organizations with expertise in supporting founders and scaling startup communities.

How can I learn more or get updates?

If you have questions regarding the Visionaries Alumni Network process, please contact Hannah Griffin at hannah@visiblehands.vc.‍

FORFOUNDERS