"Transforming the people, ideas and enterprises changing the world"

Startup Lab by
Forerunners

A groundbreaking impact-first, values-aligned innovation engine for idea stage founders, Muslim nonprofits, and philanthropic initiatives.

Our Programs

Comprehensive support for values-aligned visionaries at every stage of their journey.

Launchpad

Transform early-stage concepts into viable social impact ventures with dedicated mentorship and resources.

Nonprofit Accelerator

Scale early to growth stage Muslim nonprofits through strategic planning, operational excellence, and sustainable funding models.

Founder Fellowship

Join a cohort of mission-driven founders committed to creating systemic impact within the Muslim community.

$1M Ummah Prize

Annual million dollar award celebrating Muslim-founded companies driving 10x community impact across crucial sectors.

Why join the startup lab community

We provide the resources, community, and framework needed to build impactful,
values-aligned ventures.

Seed Funding

Access to initial capital to bring your vision to life.

Expert Mentorship

Guidance from successful founders
and industry leaders.

Islamic Framework

Build with values rooted in the Islamic tradition.

Recognition

Showcase your impact to a global audience.

Strategic Direction

Clarity on how to achieve sustainable
growth and impact.

Powerful Network

Join a community of visionary Muslim
founders and allies.

Success Stories

Meet the innovative ventures that have flourished with Startup Lab

Purity, Wholesomeness, and Ethical Goodness

Tayeb is redefining halal food by making ethically-sourced, delicious halal chicken accessible across America. From family farms to major grocery shelves, they’re building a cleaner food system rooted in faith and fairness.

Eat for Good

Falafel Inc pairs fast-casual food with global impact—every $10 spent at their restaurant feeds a refugee in need. Their model proves affordable meals can power meaningful change.

Travel Beyond Traditional Tourism

Caravan Tales curates spiritually transformative travel experiences that reconnect Muslim professionals to faith, nature, and purpose. Each journey ends not just with memories, but a published personal “tale.”

A Dynamic and Inclusive Marketplace

Souq Social creates vibrant halal pop-ups that empower local vendors and celebrate Muslim culture. They’ve built one of the DMV’s most dynamic marketplaces for food, fashion, and community.

Styling With Purpose

BHS Image helps professionals align personal presentation with purpose, confidence, and values. Their consulting model supports leaders to show up authentically in every space they enter.

Ethical Investing for Muslim Professionals

Noorvest is reimagining ethical investing for the next generation of Muslim professionals. They provide access to faith-aligned opportunities that prioritize both impact and integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What stage in the startup process would your ideal candidate be at?

We’re all about turning early-stage ideas into legit companies. If you’ve got a product and are ready to start making sales, you’re in the sweet spot. If you’re still doodling on napkins… maybe finish that first.

Is there a prize for the top pitch?

Yep. Out of the six startup squads in the program, the one that slays the pitch takes home $25,000 USD. No pressure.

Is the program available to nonprofits?

Absolutely. We’re chasing impact, not profit margins. If your nonprofit idea is transformative and hits one of our focus areas, we want you.

What industries are you focused on?

Tech, Food/Beverage, Real Estate, Apparel, Construction… basically, if it’s solving problems and moving fast, we’re interested.

What is the time commitment required?

Expect to block evenings Monday–Thursday (5–8pm) and a half-day on Friday (10–2pm). Show up ready to grind—this is where ideas get real.

How much does the Startup Lab cost?

$0 to attend. Yep, free. 8% equity will be taken and held by our non profit to fuel the cause.

Apply to Startup Lab - Launchpad

~Quba Cohort - Launching September 15th~

Join our next cohort and transform your vision into reality with our comprehensive support system.

Eligibility Requirements

Muslim founder or serving Muslim communities
Clear social impact mission aligned with Islamic values
Innovative solution to a meaningful problem
Commitment to building a sustainable model without compromising on values
Willingness to participate fully in the program