Changing the Faces of Innovation

Mangroves make up one of the most productive and biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet. They thrive not because every part is the same, but because each organism contributes something the others need. Inspired by nature, yCITIES cultivates the flow between budding/seasoned entrepreneurs and current/future investors… where folks have different starting points, different journeys, and different stories, but find value in feeding off one another’s experiences, perspectives, and skills.

Our membership-based ecosystem works the same way: investors, operators, founders, and experts. We believe everyone has someone to teach, and something still to learn

Our Mission & Story
Connecting founders, investors, students, and mentors across generations

Our Programs

Tiered programs for every stage of the entrepreneurial journey — from middle school to seasoned professionals.

Emerging & Established Professionals

Inside the Mind of an Investor Intensive

A 2-Saturday virtual intensive exploring how real early-stage investment decisions are made through judgment under uncertainty.

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Emerging & Established Professionals

Pre-Diligence Lab Practicum

Apply investor judgment without deploying capital — generating structured, high-signal analysis for time-constrained angel investors.

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Middle & High School Students

FundingIQ Intensive

A 3-week virtual intensive inviting motivated students to explore entrepreneurship from the investor's lens.

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Middle & High School Students

Youth Venture Mentoring Network

Structured virtual mentoring for young innovators to validate ideas, reduce risk, and gain traction with near-peer coaching.

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For Active Investors

The Pre-Diligence Lab produces structured Assumption & Evidence Briefs — helping time-constrained angels orient faster, without replacing their judgment.

Pre-Diligence Memos

For Founders

Submit your pitch deck for structured analysis by trained analysts. Get early, constructive feedback and reach a curated investor audience — free to apply.

Submit Your Deck

Join the Mangrove Circle

Support youth programs, learner stipends, and the digital infrastructure behind our educational experiences.
Annual contribution: $100

Become a Member