FAQ
Common questions about Aeroventure, the application process, funding, and what to expect. Can’t find your answer? Reach out through the contact section on our homepage.
Venture funding for student founders
Do you provide funding to students?
Yes. Accepted students receive startup grants to put toward inventory, tools, marketing, and other business expenses. No debt, no equity taken from you. The funding is yours to deploy toward your venture.
How much funding do students get?
Each accepted student receives a $500 startup grant to put toward inventory, tools, or marketing. Top performers may qualify for additional rolling grants. No debt, no equity taken.
What else do I get besides funding?
Mentorship (1:1 with a matched mentor), access to playbooks and workshops, community events and office hours, and a network of student founders and alumni. We also help with pitch prep and connections to the local business community. Venture funding is a core part of what we do.
Eligibility and application
Who can apply?
Long Island high school students in grades 9–12. You don’t need a business yet—just curiosity, commitment, and a willingness to learn and build. We welcome first-time founders and students who’ve already started something small.
How do I apply?
Fill out the application on our Apply page. We ask about you, your interests, your goals, and (if you have one) your current idea. We review every application and get back to you with next steps—usually within a few weeks.
Is there a cost?
No. The program is free for accepted students. We don’t charge application fees or program fees. We want founder education and support to be accessible.
Program experience
How long is the program?
We run in cohorts. Length can vary by cohort; we’ll share the exact timeline when you’re accepted. The goal is to support you from idea (or early stage) through launch and early growth.
Do I have to have a business idea already?
No. Many students join with an idea; others join with curiosity and figure out their venture with the help of playbooks and mentors. We’re here to help you validate, build, and launch.
Is this in person or virtual?
We offer both. Mentorship can be in person or over video. Workshops and events are a mix of in-person (on Long Island) and virtual so that students from across the area can participate.
Other
What if I’m under 18? Do I need a parent or guardian?
Yes. We require parent/guardian contact and consent as part of the application. We’ll communicate with both you and your parent/guardian as needed for program logistics and safety.
Where is Aeroventure based?
We’re built on Long Island, NY, and serve Long Island high school students. Our mentors, partners, and events are focused on this community.
Still have questions? contact@aeroventureinstitute.org · Contact form · Parent guide