Become an entrepreneur by building
Joining the Founder Program means working from day one on initiatives that generate revenue, growth, and real operational decisions.
There is no initial theoretical phase.
Learning happens through execution: active projects, real clients, clear goals, and assigned responsibilities.
Responsibilities increase over time.
Evaluations are periodic and formal.
Progression to the next phase is not automatic.
PROGRAM PHASES
What the Founder Program actually is and how it works
The program is structured in progressive phases.
Each phase comes with a different level of autonomy, complexity, and responsibility.
01. Trial Month
One month working on active projects to assess fit, execution speed, and output quality. It’s a mutual test.
02. Builder
You work across multiple projects in different areas (sales, marketing, operations, product), collaborating with different team leaders. This is where you build method and discipline. Evaluations are quarterly.
03. Launcher
You take full ownership of specific initiatives. You coordinate small teams, make strategic decisions, and manage impact on results.
04. Founder Phase
When your initiative shows strong signals, you reduce your involvement in internal projects and focus on structured validation. If results are consistent, we move forward with the spin-off.
ENVIRONMENT & EXPECTATIONS
The program requires strong commitment and the ability to work under pressure. It is not designed as an exploratory experience, but as a path aimed at building a company. The HQ is in Chiasso (Switzerland). There are 4 in-person days per month dedicated to strategic workshops, performance reviews, and key decisions. Alongside work, we also share informal moments and outdoor activities that strengthen relationships and collaboration among founders. We evaluate concrete results, not hours worked.
HOW TO GET IN
Selection process
We structure the process to assess reasoning ability, execution quality, and operational fit.
It includes:
SHORT VIDEO
A few minutes where you present a project or a relevant decision. The goal is to understand your clarity of thinking.
TEAM INTERVIEW
A direct conversation to assess alignment, maturity, and working style.
WRITTEN APPLICATION
A focused application on what you have built, the responsibilities you’ve taken, and how you make decisions.
CASE STUDY
A test based on a situation similar to those you would face in the program, to evaluate structure, prioritization, and speed.
FAQ
Everything you need to know
How long do projects usually last?
Validate: 8–12 weeks. Launch: 3–6 months. Scale: 6+ months. We define duration based on the outcome to achieve, not on billable hours.
How does compensation evolve during the program?
The program includes a monthly fellowship that increases with responsibility and progression through the phases. Growth is gradual and linked to results and the level of ownership you take on projects.
Can you tell me more about the talent community?
Our team is made up of builders and launchers: people who have worked on real startups, launched products, and learned by doing. No career consultants. No theorists.
Do I need to have an idea before applying?
No. You can join without a defined idea. During the program, you work on existing projects and, in parallel, develop and test your own initiative. The idea takes shape over time, starting from real market signals.
Can I join the program part-time?
No. The program requires continuous operational involvement. The responsibilities and pace are not compatible with a marginal commitment.
What happens if I don’t pass a phase?
Each phase includes formal evaluation checkpoints. If objectives are not met, the program ends. This system is designed to maintain high standards and work only with those who can sustain the required level.
How are projects assigned?
At the beginning, you work on existing initiatives, joining active teams. Over time, based on performance, autonomy and responsibility increase, leading to direct ownership of projects or the development of your own startup.
What happens when the idea is validated?
If the initiative shows strong metrics, we proceed with the spin-off. Drommer invests in the launch and remains an operational partner. The startup is yours and you retain the majority.
When do I start working on my own startup?
From the early stages, you begin exploring and developing your own idea. As concrete signals emerge, you move into a more structured validation phase, with dedicated time and team support.