Propeller has launched Kernel Camp, an 8-week deep-tech residency program in San Francisco designed to accelerate ambitious, early-stage technology founders from the MENA region. This program offers a unique platform to refine ideas, test products, and build a global network in the heart of Silicon Valley.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Deep-Tech Residency Program
- For: MENA-based technical founders in AI and deep-tech
- Key Benefits: Sponsored housing, mentorship, and access to Silicon Valley’s tech ecosystem
- Application Deadline: Not specified, applications are now open
- Location: San Francisco, CA (April–May 2026)
Residency Program Overview
Kernel Camp is an immersive 8-week experience for MENA-based builders who are serious about pushing boundaries and connecting with the global tech ecosystem. The program is designed to help founders accelerate their product’s development by placing them in an environment of global deep-tech thinking, engineering excellence, and ambitious company-building. The residency culminates in a demo day for Propeller’s Silicon Valley community.
Key Benefits
Participants will receive significant support to focus on building their startups:
- Fully-covered housing in San Francisco
- A meals stipend of $1000 per month
- Weekly workshops and guest talks with world-class builders
- One-on-one founder support and office hours
- Site visits to leading technology companies and venture firms
- A closing product showcase to the Silicon Valley community
- A strong founder cohort and global network
Eligibility Criteria
Ideal applicants are founders from the MENA region who are ready to scale their startups. You should be:
- A technical founder with a demo-ready product
- A builder with early traction, partners, or design partners
- Based in the MENA region and working full-time on your startup
- Able to obtain a U.S. visa and stay for the full 8 weeks
- Working within Propeller’s deep-tech focus areas (AI infrastructure, developer tools, deep software)
Program Schedule
- Week 1: Welcome, onboarding, and community building.
- Weeks 2–7: Focused deep work, supported by workshops, site visits, and 1:1 guidance.
- Week 8: Closing event and product showcase.
How to Apply
Applications for the inaugural cohort are now open. Interested founders should apply as soon as possible, as spots are limited.
Apply now on Propeller’s website.
About Propeller
Propeller is a global venture capital firm investing in early-stage startups building AI infrastructure, developer tools, and deep software across the U.S. and the MENA region. Founded in 2017, Propeller operates from Amman, Riyadh, Boston, and Silicon Valley. The firm recently launched Fund III, a $50 million fund supporting technically ambitious founders and accelerating cross-border innovation between MENA and the U.S.
Learn More: Propeller launches “Kernel Camp,” an 8-week deep-tech residency in San Francisco for MENA founders
