​The Program

​Matchmaking: AI-Native Services Edition is a 4-week co-founding experience by Canastra Ventures — designed to connect domain operators with AI builders to create the next generation of AI-native service companies.

​This is our 4th edition of Matchmaking, and our most focused yet. The thesis is simple: a domain operator without a tech founder only goes so far. A tech founder without deep sector knowledge does too. This program exists to bring the two together.

​Over 4-weeks, selected participants go through a structured matching and validation process — with active curation from the Canastra team at every stage. The goal is not only networking. It is co-founding.

​Who should apply

• ​Founders

  • ​Background in business, strategy, ops, or product.

  • ​Interest in founding a VC-backable startup

  • ​Sales, distribution, or market insight capability

  • ​Deep domain expertise across services industries (Legal, Tax, IT)

  • ​CEO/COO/CPO (Business Roles) for the AI-Native Services startup

• ​AI Talent

  • ​Engineers, CSs, and PhDs from top-tier universities

  • ​Strong technical skills in LLMs, agents, infra, or data

  • ​Track record of execution or high potential

  • ​Ready to build, not just work

  • ​CTO/CAIO (Tech Roles) for the AI-Native Services startup

​*Applicants must select the profile that genuinely reflects their background and intended role. Applications from candidates who fit the Founder profile but apply as AI Talent will not be considered. If you are unsure which profile applies to you, reach out before submitting.

​**AI Talent applications will only be considered if the technical evidence field is completed. Demonstrate your technical skills through open-source repositories, projects you've built, papers you've published, or other related work. Incomplete applications will not move forward in the selection process.

​Key Information

​Application deadline: May 28, 2025
Application-based: we review on a rolling basis
​​Capacity is limited: up to ~60 seats
Program dates: June 1 – June 26, 2025

→ Learn more on the program’s page.

​*By registering, you agree to share your data with Canastra Ventures, sponsors and our partners. Additionally, by registering, you authorize us to send you the latest news, company announcements, and other communications from Canastra Ventures and partners.