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Thiel Foundation

Thiel Fellowship

Pays $250,000 over two years to young people who leave or skip college to build something new instead, plus mentorship and access to the Thiel Foundation's network of founders and investors.

Between cyclesThiel FoundationUnited States

Selected Fellows receive the $250,000 grant over a two-year program, plus mentorship, workshops, and introductions to investors and partners through the Thiel Foundation's network. The homepage points applicants to a direct online application ('Apply Now') and does not otherwise describe selection stages or who makes the final decision.

The Fellowship is for young people with a venture or project ambitious enough to justify stepping away from a traditional college education. The Thiel Fellowship does not name an industry focus — fellows are described only as people who "want to build new things" rather than sit in a classroom. Selection favors self-directed founders willing to skip or stop out of school for the two-year program.

CycleiHow often this grant runs - e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.No fixed schedule
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.-
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.-
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.24 months
Award typeiThe form of funding - grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.-
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.-

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