Department of Economic Initiatives (DEI)

Your Chance to Scale Up with $50K Fairfax County announced the next application round for the Fairfax Founders Fund (FFF), a program designed to fuel innovation and business growth, will be open from March 17 through April 21, 2025  May 5, 2025. ** Deadline Extended** FFF provides selected early-stage startups with up to $50,000 in funding capital to help start-ups develop their business and prepare for later stage investment. The program seeks early stage, high-growth trajectory companies who can demonstrate their company has innovative technology, a path to commercialization, a clear market opportunity, and development milestones. Recipients will be able to use the resources for prototype or product development, market research, customer acquisition, technology validation, legal costs and/or other approved areas. Importantly, Fairfax County will not take any equity in the companies supported through the fund. Applicants must provide a 50% match, which can be in capital or non-monetary contributions via “sweat equity” and provide progress reports over a 5-year timeframe.   This opportunity is open to Fairfax County startups. Applicants must have raised less than $1 million in startup funding and generated less than $250,000 in gross revenue within the past 12 months. Additionally, applicants must clearly demonstrate a strong understanding of product-market fit and their target market, a compelling and unique value proposition for that target market, and a clear and well-defined path to commercialization.  A capable team to execute the vision is also critical.   The FFF is a competitive program, and a limited number of startups will be selected.  Underrepresented and diverse founders are encouraged to apply.  The Fairfax Founders Fund is a cornerstone of Fairfax County's commitment to cultivate a thriving startup ecosystem.  By investing in local entrepreneurs, the program fuels job creation, accelerates economic growth, and strengthens the county’s position as a primary destination for innovative businesses. Learn more and apply for the Fairfax Founders Fund by visiting the FFF webpage.  Meet all our awardees. _________________________________________________________________ The Fairfax County Department of Economic Initiatives leads programs to foster economic development and position Fairfax County to be an economically competitive and prosperous community for all. The Department delivers innovative solutions to cultivate a diverse and thriving local business base, facilitate development through public-private partnerships that address strategic priorities, and foster an entrepreneurial and innovative ecosystem within the County and the region, building on competitive economic strengths. ###