Start-Up Chile: Equity-Free Funding for Global Entrepreneurs

Program Overview

Start-Up Chile is one of Latin America's premier startup acceleration programs, offering equity-free grants ranging from $15,000 to $100,000 USD across three program tiers. Launched by the Chilean government's innovation agency CORFO, the program has supported over 2,000 startups from 80+ countries since 2010.

The program operates three distinct tracks tailored to different startup stages: Build ($15 million fund), Ignite ($25 million fund), and Growth ($75 million fund). All selected startups receive equity-free capital, access to Chile's thriving startup ecosystem, and a 2-year temporary work visa.

Funding Structure

Start-Up Chile offers three funding tiers based on startup maturity:

Build Program: $15,000 USD for early-stage startups validating their MVP. Designed for teams with a working prototype seeking product-market fit. The $15 million fund supports founders from idea to initial traction.

Ignite Program: $25,000 USD for startups with proven product-market fit seeking to scale. The $25 million fund targets companies ready to expand their customer base and refine their business model.

Growth Program: $75,000 to $100,000 USD for established startups ready for international expansion. The $75 million fund supports high-growth companies with validated revenue models and clear scaling strategies.

Key Benefits

Equity-Free Capital: All grants are non-dilutive. Founders retain 100% ownership of their companies with zero equity requirements.

2-Year Work Visa: All selected founders receive a temporary work visa valid for 2 years, allowing them to live and operate their startup from Chile.

Ecosystem Access: Participants gain entry to Chile's vibrant startup ecosystem, including networking events, mentor connections, and investor introductions. Chile serves as a gateway to Latin American markets.

Global Community: Join a network of 2,000+ alumni from 80+ countries, creating valuable international business connections and collaboration opportunities.

Eligibility Requirements

Start-Up Chile welcomes applications from entrepreneurs worldwide. Key eligibility criteria include:

Incorporated Company: Must be a legally registered business entity (can incorporate in Chile or home country).

Scalable Business Model: Startups must demonstrate potential for rapid growth and international scalability.

Team Commitment: At least one co-founder must commit to relocating to Chile for the program duration (typically 6-12 months depending on track).

Program-Specific Requirements: Build requires an MVP, Ignite requires product-market fit evidence, and Growth requires validated revenue and expansion-ready business model.

Application Process

1. Online Application: Submit your application through the Start-Up Chile portal at www.startupchile.org. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis with periodic cohort deadlines.

2. Application Review: A panel of experts evaluates applications based on innovation, team strength, market opportunity, and scalability potential.

3. Selection: Top candidates are selected for each program tier. Notification typically occurs 4-8 weeks after application deadline.

4. Program Launch: Selected startups relocate to Chile, receive grant funding, and begin their acceleration program with dedicated support and mentorship.

Program Timeline

Application periods open quarterly with rolling deadlines. Typical program duration ranges from 6-12 months depending on the selected track. The 2-year work visa extends beyond program completion, allowing founders to continue building their business in Chile.

Success Tips

Emphasize innovation and differentiation in your application. Clearly articulate your unique value proposition and competitive advantages.

Demonstrate scalability potential with concrete market size data and growth projections. Show how Chile serves as a strategic base for Latin American expansion.

Highlight team strength and relevant experience. Strong founding teams with complementary skills increase selection chances.

For Growth track applicants, provide clear evidence of traction including revenue metrics, user growth, and market validation.

Contact Information

Website: www.startupchile.org

Email: contacto@startupchile.org

Address: Moneda 1155, Santiago, Chile

Managed by: CORFO (Corporación de Fomento de la Producción)