Question 1

Who is eligible for mentorship?

Accepted Answer

Founders working on early-stage climate startups (pre-seed to Series A). We welcome solo founders and small teams, as long as you're serious about your mission.

Question 2

Is this really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Mentors volunteer their time because they care about the planet and believe in supporting the next generation of climate leaders.

Question 3

What kind of help can I get?

Accepted Answer

It varies, but most founders ask for help with fundraising, market validation, storytelling, pitch decks, hiring, or business models.

Question 4

Can I request a specific mentor?

Accepted Answer

If you have someone in mind from our directory, mention it in your application. We can’t guarantee a match, but we’ll do our best.

Question 5

How often can I meet with a mentor?

Accepted Answer

Most matches begin with a single call. If there's mutual interest, you're welcome to continue the relationship informally.

Question 6

What makes a strong application?

Accepted Answer

Clarity. Tell us what you're building, what challenge you’re facing, and what kind of support would be most helpful right now.

Question 7

What is my role as a mentor?

Accepted Answer

A mentor at Hourglass Impact serves as a trusted advisor, offering guidance rather than direct solutions. Your role includes:
 • Helping mentees identify challenges and opportunities.
 • Providing industry insights and strategic advice.
 • Encouraging independent problem-solving.
 • Sharing relevant networks and resources.
 • Supporting personal and professional growth.

Key Qualities of an Effective Mentor
 • Empathy – Understand and support mentees’ challenges.
 • Active Listening – Give full attention and ask thoughtful questions.
 • Honesty – Provide constructive feedback and clear advice.
 • Commitment – Allocate time consistently for mentoring sessions.
 • Openness – Be willing to learn from mentees as well.

Question 8

How is the mentor-mentee relationship structured?

Accepted Answer

A successful mentorship typically follows these stages:
1. Introduction & Goal Setting – Discuss expectations, define objectives, and establish a mentorship cadence.
2. Exploration & Learning – Delve into challenges, brainstorm solutions, and exchange insights.
3. Implementation & Feedback – Mentees apply learnings while mentors provide ongoing feedback.
4. Reflection & Growth – Evaluate progress, celebrate achievements, and discuss next steps.

Question 9

How does the mentorship process work?

Accepted Answer

1. Matching Process: Currently, mentors are paired with mentees manually by us, based on expertise, interests, and mentorship goals. However, we will shortly be launching a mentor directory on our website allowing startups to reach out to mentors directly if they believe you have the appropriate expertise to help.
2. First Meeting: Establish objectives, preferred communication methods, and frequency of meetings.
3. Ongoing Sessions: Mentors and mentees schedule regular check-ins, typically every 2-4 weeks.
4. Feedback Loop: Both parties are encouraged to provide feedback to improve the mentorship experience.
5. Completion & Continuation: After an initial period (e.g., 3-6 months), mentors and mentees can choose to continue or conclude the relationship.

Question 10

How much time should I commit to mentoring?

Accepted Answer

We recommend a minimum of 1-2 hours per month, split into 30-minute calls per session. However, as this is a volunteering role and we understand that both life and career can get in the way sometimes, this is flexible and based on your availability. Sometimes you might have more free time and organise more calls, whereas other times you may be completely unavailable and will need to communicate this to any mentorship request you receive.

Question 11

Can I mentor multiple mentees?

Accepted Answer

Yes, depending on your capacity and interests.

Question 12

What if the mentor-mentee match isn’t working?

Accepted Answer

If either party feels the match isn’t productive, we encourage open communication and, if needed, reassignment.

Question 13

Are mentorship sessions in person or virtual?

Accepted Answer

Most mentorship interactions are virtual, but in-person meetings can be arranged if mutually convenient.