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First pilot region

Help launch a more accessible startup program in Chicagoland.

The first OMS2 Founder Builder cohort is being prepared for founders in the Chicago metropolitan region, with remote participation being designed where it is operationally practical. The pilot is planned to run through coworking, library, university, community or other partner space rather than a permanent office.

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The pilot

What the pilot is designed to deliver

Cohort size, duration, schedule and venue are proposed rather than confirmed, and depend on funding and readiness.

  • A free Founder Builder cohort for 25–50 founders (proposed)
  • Approximately eight weeks of workshops and guided build sessions (proposed)
  • AI, AI-assisted coding and no-code training for beginners
  • Customer discovery, MVP development and go-to-market work
  • Mentor office hours and a closing founder showcase
  • Remote participation where it is operationally practical

Founding community

Who can help

The pilot will be built with organizations and people across the region, alongside remote-delivery partners.

  • Coworking and workspace organizations
  • Libraries and community institutions
  • Colleges and universities
  • Corporate and philanthropic sponsors
  • Economic-development organizations
  • Professional-service firms
  • Mentors and instructors
  • Founder referral partners
  • Event and venue partners

Space partnership request

Partner space, not a permanent office.

OMS2 is seeking donated, sponsored or affordable partner space for pilot programming. No facility has been selected, and every space arrangement will be documented in writing.

Offer Space or a Venue
  • Donated or discounted program space
  • Flexible classroom or meeting access
  • Occasional event or showcase space
  • Internet and presentation infrastructure
  • Accessible transit or parking where possible
  • A written, clearly defined partnership

Be part of the first pilot.

Chicagoland is where OMS2 starts, not where the mission ends. Remote participation is being designed where it is practical, and wider expansion comes only after the pilot produces evidence worth replicating.

Organizations

Bring funding, space, technology, services or founder referrals to the launch.

Become a Partner

Mentors and volunteers

Offer practical business, technical or professional experience to founders.

Mentor or Volunteer