Don't Wander the Valley of Death Alone
Exceptional Expertise to Advance your Proof of Concept Interests
Our Support Services
Build Leadership and Stakeholder Buy-in
When all you need is a little momentum
Web and on-site meetings with your executive decision-makers and stakeholders to help adopt your vision. This includes a tailored industry overview, examples of different POC program structures, and explementary program best practices.
Develop GAP Framework
Develop a customized gap fund, accelerator, or broader innovation institute framework.
Whether you are starting a GAP program or further developming and existing program, we will co-develop and deliver a plan that fits the culture, capabilities, and goals of your institution or organization
GAP Program Reporting and Benchmarking
External, experienced assessment of your program for impact and opportunities
Our unique set of impact and program assessment metrics will help you showcase results and identify program opportunities, so that you can clearly demonstrate (to leadership and stakeholders) your POC program's role in driving the organization’s priorities presently and into the future.
Raise Philanthropic Support
Working with development offices to create and deploy raise strategies
To date, we have assisted gap fund and accelerator programs in raising over $20m in philanthropic support. We will act as your subject matter expert to assist in your raise.
Meet your Teammember

Jacob Johnson, M.S. MOT
- Thought-leader on university gap funding and accelerator best practices since 2005 through the Mind the Gap initiative
- Founder of the Community of Action, a community of practice/accelerator for current or developing gap funding and accelerator programs
- Supported the development and evolution of POC and startup gap funding programs at over 300 institutions
Previous Work and Case Studies
Let's get started
- Identifying sources of program funding and plans for sustainability
- Structuring a unique program process, including communication, evaluation, process selection, and oversight
- Advocating and educating campus leadership and groups on the importance and purpose of POC programs
- Designing accelerator support programs including mentorship, advisory, and management networks and initiatives
- Creating a stakeholder strategy to incorporate and leverage entrepreneurs, industry, and investors in the program