Our program brings together experienced and industry-savvy professionals eager to partner with new technology startups. Each cohort runs for six months and involves a commitment of 2–4 hours per month. As a mentor, your guidance and insight will empower aspiring entrepreneurs on their journey to success.  We are seeking seasoned entrepreneurs and executives to help guide and support our startups. As a mentor, you will build meaningful relationships, fostering growth and unlocking potential to bring out the best in everyone involved. The mentor program is available to IGNITE clients and FAMU/FSU spinout companies.

Our first cohort kicks off on January 29th—join us in shaping the future of innovation!

Cohort 2025 Timeline

January 24 - Applications due for Mentors and Mentees

January 29 - Mentor Cohort Kickoff (Virtual) @ 2:00PM

February 13 - Mentor Program Training, 1:00PM - 3:00PM

February 14 - Mentor Matchmaking, 9:00AM - 11:30AM

March 26 - Group Check-Ins, 1:00PM (Mentors) & 2:00PM (Mentees)

May 14 - Group Check-Ins, 1:00PM (Mentors) & 2:00PM (Mentees)

July 9 - Mentor Program Graduation, 1:00PM - 3:00PM

Benefits for Mentors

• Exclusive access to new technology startups
• Free mentor training sessions
• Opportunity to grow your exclusive network of mentors and executives
• Earn a mentor certification through WeLoveMentors
• Receive recognition in the community as an IGNITE FSU mentor
• Recognized on communication channels highlighting program results and your impact within the program 

Benefits for Mentees

• Direct access to knowledgeable industry experts
• Opportunity to grow your network of industry executives
• Ability to learn and expand your knowledge with trained mentors
• Guaranteed hours each month with your paired mentor
• Opportunity to sharpen your entrepreneurial business skills
• Recognition on communication channels highlighting the program

Participant Expectations

• One shared kick-off meeting (1 hour) 
• One in-person training (2 hours)
• One match-making session (1 hour)
• Two shared check-ins with other program mentors (1 hour)
• Between 2-4 dedicated hours each month with paired mentor/mentee
  • Meetings can be via phone call, in-person, or virtual meetings
• Understand and apply confidentiality with mentors/mentees
• Monthly check-ins with IGNITE program

Contact for Questions:

Alissa Costabile, MBA acostabile@fsu.edu

IGNITE Program Director