Social and Advisory Group for Entrepreneurs (SAGE) is a program specifically designed to provide early stage startups with advisory and mentoring assistance as they prepare themselves to become a sustainable business. The successful program is made up of highly experienced advisors who are dedicated to helping startups refine business strategies, clarify product definitions and validate go-to-market plans.

How does SAGE work?
SAGE is a team-based multi-disciplinary approach for assisting startups in gaining traction. Each month, a promising startup presents their business plan to SAGE advisors. Following the presentation, the group provides real time feedback to the presenter. After the meeting, interested advisors form an advisory team to provide on-going advice and mentorship over the next 6 to 12 months.

What kind of startups does SAGE work with?

SAGE targets early stage startups who use technology to innovate in their business model. Startups come from many sources including universities, community meetups, and the classical garage or basement. Startups referred to the program are often Innosphere clients or potential clients. Entrepreneurs do not have to be working on their business full time and are not restricted to Venture Capital companies. “Bootstrappers” are welcome. Upon exiting SAGE, startups typically move on to incubators such as Innosphere or seek Angel funding to move to the next startup stage.

What is the role of a SAGE advisor?

SAGE advisors apply their experience and expertise to assist tech entrepreneurs in taking their startup business to the next level.  SAGE advisors bring deep skills in one or more areas including:  marketing, finance, sales, technology and legal. They do this through screening startups interested in SAGE, providing feedback after startup presentations at the monthly meetings, and as pro-bono advisors & coaches working with the startup founders following their SAGE presentation to address their specific needs.