Curated 1:1 connects with US buyers in your vertical to validate, pitch, and build revenue.
About
A vertical-focused bridge program for early-stage AI startups in healthcare and BFSI — helping Indian founders access US customers, advisors, and strategic networks.
Important Dates
Program fee
Join the cohort for a subsidised fee of $3500—covering your 3-week stay in the US at Draper University and 6 months of exclusive SaaSBoomi events in India and the US (flights not included).
Invite Only
Why you should join
Curated 1:1 connects with US buyers in your vertical to validate, pitch, and build revenue.
Each startup gets 2 dedicated mentors (operators or domain leaders) who commit dedicated time over 6 months.
Workshops, expert sessions, and peer reviews — all tailored to your domain, not generic SaaS growth advice.
Join a tight-knit crew of 15 AI founders with shared ambition, clarity, and access.
About the Program
Vertical Velocity is a 6-month cross-border program designed for AI-first Indian startups building in healthcare or BFSI tools. It blends 1:1 mentorship, tactical playbooks, and deep US ecosystem immersion – all designed to unlock product-market fit and revenue across borders.
Founders will also be part of Caravan ’25, scheduled from October 7th – 13th, in the Bay Area.
Who should apply
Program Format
Applications open: July 9, 2025
Program starts: August 21, 2025
US Immersion: September 21 – October 13, 2025 (includes Caravan ’25)
Program Structure
Meet the team
FAQs
Is this a funding program?
No. Fundraising may happen organically, but the focus is US traction and PMF.
Is the US trip funded?
As part of our community support, there is a subsidised program fee of $3500 per founder to participate. This includes a 3 week stay at Draper University in US + access to all networking events, etc hosted by SaaSBoomi in India and US for 6 months for the cohort. Flight charges to be borne (and booked) by the founders.
When will I need to travel to the US?
You should be in the Bay Area by or before Sep 20, 2025.
Do I need to relocate to the US?
Not required. But openness to extended time in the US is a plus.
What is the startup selection process?
Once you have applied, the Vertical Velocity team will review your application and reach out to you for a virtual or in person conversation. The final decision will be communicated via email.
How is this program different from SGx?
Vertical Velocity is focused on helping vertical SaaS startups break into the US market, with a strong focus on deep customer and market immersion.
SGx, on the other hand, is designed to help early-stage SaaS startups build their path to high growth, with hands-on guidance and structured support, regardless of their target market or vertical.
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