Fairfield
Founders
We are a pre-seed accelerator program, independently led by Fairfield University alumni, dedicated to supporting early-stage startups in the Fairfield ecosystem.
Our Mission
Transforming startup potential into success through a community-driven network.
Empowering startups in the Fairfield ecosystem with mentorship, strategic guidance, and essential resources through a collaborative network of alumni, faculty, and community members. We drive business success and innovation by fostering community-engaged entrepreneurship.
Disclaimer: Fairfield Founders is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is not formally affiliated with Fairfield University.
Key Offerings for Startups
Facilitate journey from business plan to market-ready products and services.
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Structured Modules: Guides to go-to-market and funding strategies.
Milestone Planning: Tools for achieving critical goals.
Strategic Path: Tailored growth plans.
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Investor Introductions: Feedback from investors.
Expert Connections: Feedback on development and valuation.
Partner & Customer Links: Networking with industry leaders.
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Hands-On Help: Interns assist with creating key startup materials.
Workshops: Training interns to support startups with financials, research, etc.
"Looking back, I realized I could have navigated the legal side of my startup much more effectively. I invested heavily in legal fees without fully understanding what to prioritize. This program would have provided the guidance I needed to make informed decisions and save valuable resources"
– Ronan Ryan ’96, Co-Founder & COO, IEX
"I wish I had this program earlier in my startup journey. I approached investors before I was ready, wasting valuable introductions. With the right preparation and feedback on my pitch, I could have made a better impression and saved time in my fundraising efforts"
– George Cultraro II ’20, Co-Founder, Casatera
Our Team
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![Oranssi founder Drew Weber]()
CHRISTIAN O'ROURKE '24, MsF '25
Founder & Executive Director
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Mike Garvey '89
Advisor
Founder & CEO of Explore Information Services
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![Oranssi general contractor Reese Platt]()
STEPHEN DIERKS '18
Advisor
Director, Head of Fintech at Oak HC/FT
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![Oranssi construction engineer Jamie Kokot]()
MATT MILLER
Advisor
Co-Founder & Chairman of Thea Energy
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George Kalan
Advisor
Co-Founder of Orien Ventures
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Pushkaraj Kalkar MsBA '25
Graduate Fellow
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Josh Orndorff '24, MsDS '26
Graduate Fellow
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Catherine Martin '27
Intern
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Alex Hart '27
Intern
Get Involved
Get Involved
Our approach is centered around need-based engagement, meaning that we aim to provide support based on the unique requirements of each startup, leveraging the expertise of our community. The information collected through the form will be used to create a database of qualified individuals who can offer guidance, mentorship, or resources to startups in need, fostering a collaborative ecosystem for entrepreneurial growth and success at Fairfield University.