Runnin' Down a Dream Foundation Grant
Legendary Benchmark investor Bill Gurley's foundation awarding $5,000 non-dilutive micro-grants to early builders and founders chasing a dream — applicants (18+, US residents) showing real commitment through unpaid work and facing a specific financial obstacle the grant would unblock. Pilot applications open May 2026; deadline Aug 1, 2026.
Quick answer
Runnin' Down a Dream Foundation offers eligible startups up to $5,000 in grant funding, with no equity required. An application is required, and it is open to Us startups (any stage).
Available programs
$5,000 per recipient
Micro-Grants for Dream Chasers
Pilot-year micro-grants of $5,000 for founders and builders chasing a dream — demonstrating commitment through unpaid work and facing a specific financial obstacle the grant would meaningfully address. Strong applicants from a 5-question assessment are invited to complete a full application.
- $5,000 non-dilutive micro-grant
- Possible milestone support (a second grant)
- Mentorship
- Community + networking with other recipients
Best for
Do you qualify for Runnin' Down a Dream Foundation?
You likely qualify if
- You are 18 or older and currently reside in the United States
- You have read the book Runnin' Down a Dream and identify with its themes
- You can name a specific financial obstacle that $5,000 would directly address
You won't qualify if
- You are under 18 or do not reside in the United States
- You are seeking general business/equity funding rather than personal passion support, or have not engaged with the book
Common rejection reasons
- No demonstrated commitment (idea-stage 'dreamer' rather than an active, unpaid 'doer')
- Vague or unconvincing financial need that the micro-grant would not meaningfully change
How to apply for Runnin' Down a Dream Foundation
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1
Check eligibility
Be 18 or older, currently residing in the US, and have read the book “Runnin’ Down a Dream.”
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2
Note the timeline
Pilot applications open May 2026 with an Aug 1, 2026 deadline; first grants are awarded early fall 2026.
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3
Apply via the RDAD Foundation
Submit at rdad.org.
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4
Get awarded
Selected applicants receive a $5,000 non-dilutive micro-grant.
Stacks well with
Founders who claim Runnin' Down a Dream Foundation commonly pair it with these to build a bigger credit stack.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Runnin' Down a Dream Foundation give startups?
Runnin' Down a Dream Foundation provides eligible startups with up to $5,000 in grant funding across its programs.
Does Runnin' Down a Dream Foundation take equity from startups?
No. Runnin' Down a Dream Foundation's startup grant are non-dilutive — you do not give up any equity to receive them.
Who qualifies for Runnin' Down a Dream Foundation?
Eligible startups generally must meet criteria such as: Must be 18 years or older; Must currently reside in the United States; Must have read the book “Runnin’ Down a Dream”.
Is Runnin' Down a Dream Foundation free for startups?
Applying is free. Runnin' Down a Dream Foundation provides up to $5,000 in grant funding with no equity required.
How do I apply for Runnin' Down a Dream Foundation?
1) Check eligibility, 2) Note the timeline, 3) Apply via the RDAD Foundation, 4) Get awarded. Full steps are on this page.
