Project Overview

Innovation Works and the Robotics Factory accelerator program are seeking an experienced external facilitator to design and lead a three-day bootcamp for founders in our July 2025 cohort. This onboarding bootcamp, focused on customer discovery and founder alignment, will use the Focus Framework as its foundational curriculum. The facilitator will manage delivery, engagement, and group dynamics across all sessions to ensure a high-quality, impactful experience.

Company Background

Innovation Works is one of the most active seed-stage investors in the country and the lead innovation and startup engine for Southwestern Pennsylvania. Through the Robotics Factory accelerator, we support hardware and robotics companies with intensive, milestone-driven programming. Our goal is to accelerate early-stage execution and company-building efforts.

Project Timeline

• RFP Sent: Monday, May 12th, 2025
• RFP Deadline: Monday, May 26th,, 2025
• Vendor Selection: Friday, May 30th, 2025
• Project Kickoff: Monday, June 9th, 2025
• Bootcamp Dates: July 21–23, 2025

Project Challenges

• Delivering a consistently high-quality onboarding experience while allowing Program Managers to focus on relational engagement.
• Ensuring fluency with the Focus Framework and effective facilitation across varied founder learning styles.
• Driving founder cohesion, energy, and actionable learning in a short, intensive format.

Project Goals

• Align all founders with the Robotics Factory’s expectations and methods.
• Foster immediate connection and energy within the cohort.
• Ensure a deep understanding of early-stage customer discovery through Focus Framework workbooks.
• Support individualized founder learning while maintaining programmatic cohesion.

Audience

This RFP is intended for professional facilitators with a strong ability to engage early-stage founders in high-energy, interactive sessions. While experience working with startup accelerators is preferred, it is not required. We welcome facilitators with diverse professional experiences who can bring structure, clarity, and momentum to an intensive onboarding experience.

Desired Facilitator Requirements

• Demonstrated professional experience in the facilitation of interactive group sessions.
• Ability to manage group dynamics and foster active participation across diverse participants.
• Willingness to collaborate closely with Innovation Works Program Managers to co-develop the final bootcamp curriculum.
• Availability for full-day engagement at TechForge (Pittsburgh, PA) July 21–23, 2025.

Team Roles and Collaboration

Damon Claus (Senior Program Manager, Innovation Works) will serve as the project lead and primary point of contact for the facilitator. Program Managers will work closely with the selected facilitator to co-create the final approach and curriculum for the bootcamp. Inputs into this process will include previous applications of the Focus Framework, facilitator insights, and Innovation Works’ strategic priorities. The goal is a highly customized and impactful bootcamp strategy developed in collaboration prior to July.

Submission Instructions

Send all proposals to Damon Claus at [email protected] by May 26, 2025.

Please include the following in your response:

• Name, email, phone, and website (if applicable)
• Years of experience and relevant facilitation work
• Description of methodology and tools used in startup facilitation
• References or case studies (if available)
• Flat-rate quote for full engagement including prep, delivery, and travel
• Confirmation of availability July 21–23, 2025

Innovation Works, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate and are dedicated to fostering a respectful environment for all employees.