About / Reality Shapers (Early Stage)
Built for Deeptech, AI, and XR Teams
Introducing Reality Shapers - an application-based global community supporting visionary founders who are shaping new realities. With virtual events, workshops, co-working sprints, co-founder/talent search, and expert office hours, we’re here to help you build the future and turn sci-fi into reality.
What You’ll Get
RESOURCES
MIT Orbit Platform
As a member, you’ll get access to MIT’s Orbit platform, a powerful space to share your startup with Reality Hack and MIT community, post jobs, discover events, and explore AI tools developed by MIT faculty to support your entrepreneurial journey.
COMMUNITY
Trusted Global Network
Join a vetted community of visionary founders, investors, and operators to build meaningful connections, collaborate on projects, and gain support for your growth — all while amplifying your venture’s visibility within our network.
INVITATION
MIT On-Campus Events
Reality Shapers from around the world are invited to MIT in January 2026 for our week-long Innovation conference and Hackathon — an in-person experience for collaboration, networking, and engagement with fellow founders, hackers, and industry leaders.
Who It’s For
Startup Stage
Early-stage founders — from pre-seed through Series A — who are actively building and gaining traction with their ventures.
Founder Traits
Committed, coachable, and collaborative individuals who take initiative and contribute to others' growth.
Join the Community
The first 100 members applied and selected will receive a free year of Perplexity Enterprise Pro.
Industry Agnostic
Technology-driven applications at the intersection of deeptech, AI, spatial/XR, robotics, neurotech, and frontier science.
Not a Founder?
OR
FOR STARTUP CURIOUS
Participate in Startup Hack
At MIT Reality Hack, Startup Hack is an immersive "Founder Experience," where aspiring founders dive into real-world challenges. From crafting pitch decks to participating in board meetings and presenting on stage, this hands-on experience gives you the tools and insights to navigate the startup world and bring your ideas to life.
FOR EVERYONE
Join a Local Chapter
Local chapters bring together founders, investors, and experts for in-person connection, complementing Founders & Funders Lab’s global virtual network. These physical hubs spark collaboration, knowledge exchange, and frontier innovation, grounded in shared purpose and community.
Founders Lab Demo Day @ MIT
Every January, Reality Shaper teams and selected startups will step into the spotlight at the highly anticipated MIT Reality Hack Founders Lab Demo Day. This is a pivotal moment for startup founders, where you’ll showcase your work in front of a panel of investors, tech leaders, and journalists. With open access for all hackathon members, it’s not just a pitch—it’s the chance to make a lasting impact and take your startup to the next level.