Pear Persian Founders Circle
The Pear Persian Founder Circle (PFC) is a premier community dedicated to empowering Iranian founders. Through this program, you’ll gain access to tailored resources, make meaningful connections with fellow ambitious Iranian founders, and learn from industry leaders.
Join a like-valued community
Join a community of ambitious founders who are actively building their startups. Forge relationships that will provide collaboration and support throughout the program and beyond.
Exclusive conversations with visionaries
Hear directly from trailblazing Iranian leaders across tech and business in private fireside chats and workshops. Learn from their experiences, challenges, and strategies for success.
Learn from Pear Partners
Gain insight on industry expertise and workshops on AI, go-to-market strategy, product-market fit, hiring, tactical storytelling and communications coaching.
Access expertise across key domains
Participate in hands-on workshops led by Pear’s industry experts. Topics include Go-to-Market strategy, hiring, product-market fit, and tactical storytelling.
Learn from visionary leaders and founders.
I’ve been so fortunate to partner with amazing Persian founders (Dropbox, Guardant Health, Applovin, Soundhound, others) and I’m thrilled to build a new community to cultivate the next generation of Persian tech founders and entrepreneurs.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for this program?
Any person with Iranian heritage who is an early-stage founder actively working on their startup idea is eligible to apply. Whether you’re in the ideation phase or have already started building your product, we encourage you to apply. Special focus will be placed on those who are actively building.
Do I need to be in the Bay Area to participate?
PFC offers a hybrid experience, with both in-person and virtual opportunities to accommodate founders. While we encourage in-person participation for optimal networking, we understand that it may not be feasible for everyone.
What can I expect from the PFC experience?
Participants will engage in workshops, hear from inspiring speakers, and build a network of founders and mentors committed to their success. The program includes practical workshops, exclusive conversations with visionary leaders, and social events to foster community. Starting in 2025, we will have a 2-day kickoff summit at the start of the cohort, and a shorter overall program timeline.
How can I apply to the PFC? Are Nominations weighted more strongly?
Applications for the Spring 2025 cohort are now open. You can apply through the application link. Interviews are conducted on a rolling basis, so we encourage early applications.
Applications and nominations are weighted the same in the review process, and only one submission is needed per founder. Please do not make multiple submissions.
What is the time commitment for the program?
The program is designed to accommodate the busy schedules of founders. The kickoff summit will be 2-days, and we will have programming over the next 8 weeks. Specific time commitments will be communicated upon acceptance, but we strive to ensure that sessions are both impactful and respectful of your time.
Will there be opportunities for networking?
Absolutely! The PFC emphasizes building a strong community. You’ll have opportunities to connect with fellow founders, mentors, and industry leaders through various events and workshops.
Is there a cost to participate in the PFC?
Participation in the PFC is free of charge. Our goal is to support and empower Iranian founders through community building.
Do you have another question?
For any additional questions or inquiries, please contact us: roya@pear.vc
Join the Pear Persian Founders Circle!
Applications are now open for the Spring 2025 cohort.
We’re looking for early-stage founders actively working on their startup ideas. If you’re ready to connect, learn, and grow with a supportive community, we’d love to hear from you.