TK Kong, Head of Ramp Procurement and a prominent early-stage investor, has announced a unique four-day in-person event designed for founders and entrepreneurs, explicitly stating it is "not another accelerator." The intensive program aims to provide participants with direct access to mentors and a dedicated team, fostering a close-knit learning and networking environment. The announcement was made via a tweet from Kong, inviting interested individuals to learn more and apply through a provided link.
The event, detailed by Kong on social media, emphasizes a hands-on, immersive experience over the typical longer-term structure of startup accelerators. Participants are set to spend focused time with industry mentors and the organizing team, suggesting a highly curated curriculum aimed at specific challenges or growth areas for early-stage ventures. This format indicates a strategic move towards specialized, short-duration programs that offer concentrated value.
TK Kong brings a wealth of experience to this initiative, having co-founded Venue, a procurement automation startup that was acquired by Ramp within 11 months. As a Sequoia Scout, he actively invests in fintech and B2B software companies, often assisting founders with product strategy and go-to-market approaches. His background positions him uniquely to identify and address the critical needs of burgeoning startups through direct mentorship.
The program's distinction from traditional accelerators highlights a growing trend in the startup ecosystem towards more flexible and targeted support mechanisms. Instead of equity-for-program models, this event appears to focus purely on intensive learning and direct interaction, potentially appealing to founders seeking specific guidance without long-term commitments. The emphasis on "spending time with mentors and the team" suggests a collaborative and personalized approach to fostering entrepreneurial growth.
While specific details regarding the event's curriculum, location, and selection criteria were not immediately available beyond the application link, the announcement by a figure of TK Kong's caliber suggests a high-value opportunity. The initiative aligns with his established commitment to supporting early-stage companies and contributing to the broader startup community through practical, impactful engagement.