Curated 1:1 connects with US buyers in your vertical to validate, pitch, and build revenue.
About
Vertical Velocity is a first-of-its-kind, 6-month cross-border program for AI-first Indian startups building in the healthcare or financial services (BFSI) sectors.
It combines 1:1 mentorship, tactical playbooks, and immersive access to the US ecosystem — all designed to help startups validate their product, achieve cross-border product-market fit, and grow revenue.
Founders will also be part of Caravan ’25, scheduled from October 6th – 11th, in the Bay Area.
Important Dates
Program fee
The program fee is $2,000, which includes all core experiences such as curated workshops, group meals, social events, and VC mixers. Please note that travel and accommodation expenses are the responsibility of individual founders.
Invite Only
This is an invite-only event for startups building in healthcare and BFSI that are less than 3 years old.
Why you should join
Curated 1:1 connects with US buyers in your vertical to validate, pitch, and build revenue.
Each startup gets 2 dedicated mentors (operators or domain leaders) who commit dedicated time over 6 months.
Workshops, expert sessions, and peer reviews — all tailored to your domain, not generic SaaS growth advice.
Join a tight-knit crew of 15 AI founders with shared ambition, clarity, and access.
About the Program
Vertical Velocity is a 6-month cross-border program designed for AI-first Indian startups building in healthcare or BFSI infrastructure and applications. It blends 1:1 mentorship, tactical playbooks, and deep US ecosystem immersion – all designed to unlock product-market fit and revenue across borders.
Founders will also be part of Caravan ’25, scheduled from October 6th – 11th, in the Bay Area.
Who should apply
Program Format
Applications open: July 9, 2025
Program starts: August 21, 2025
US Immersion: September 21 – October 13, 2025 (includes Caravan ’25)
Program Structure
Mentors & Speakers
Meet the team
FAQs
Is this a funding program?
No. Fundraising may happen organically, but the focus is US traction and PMF.
Is the US trip funded?
As part of our community support, there is a subsidised program fee of $2000 per founder to participate, which includes all core experiences such as curated workshops, group meals, social events, and VC mixers. Please note that travel and accommodation expenses are the responsibility of individual founders.
When will I need to travel to the US?
You should be in the Bay Area by or before Sep 20, 2025.
Do I need to relocate to the US?
Not required. But openness to extended time in the US is a plus.
What is the startup selection process?
Once you have applied, the Vertical Velocity team will review your application and reach out to you for a virtual or in person conversation. The final decision will be communicated via email.
How is this program different from SGx?
Vertical Velocity is focused on helping vertical SaaS startups break into the US market, with a strong focus on deep customer and market immersion.
SGx, on the other hand, is designed to help early-stage SaaS startups build their path to high growth, with hands-on guidance and structured support, regardless of their target market or vertical.
If I register for Vertical Velocity, do I need to buy a separate ticket for SaaSBoomi Caravan?
Once you’re selected for the program, your Caravan pass is included as part of the Vertical Velocity fee.
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