COMMERCIALIZATION PROGRAM · NO DIRECT FUNDING
Fifty Years
5050
Independent editorial profile; DNA Future is not affiliated with or endorsed by this institution unless expressly stated. A free twelve-week program helping scientists and researchers become deep-tech founders.
Source checked · 2027 upcomingView official page ↗
01
THE INSTITUTION
What is Fifty Years?
Fifty Years is a venture capital firm founded by Seth Bannon and Ela Madej to invest in companies tackling major global problems.
It focuses on science, climate, biology, health and other deep-technology markets.
Fifty Years was founded in 2015 to back mission-driven, science-heavy companies addressing large societal and industrial problems.
The firm does not publish a current AUM figure on the 5050 page. It says its network includes 46 founders of billion-dollar technology companies and that it has backed dozens of PhD founders.
The broader portfolio spans synthetic biology, climate, health, manufacturing, food, materials and infrastructure. The 5050 program is a founder-development route within that ecosystem.
The official site currently points to an April 2027 5050 cohort. Applicants should verify the cohort schedule and whether participation includes any company-specific financing.
02
THE PEOPLE
Who leads Fifty Years and this program?
Seth Bannon
Founding Partner
Co-founded Fifty Years and invests in science-driven companies.
Ela Madej
Founding Partner
Entrepreneur and investor who co-founded Fifty Years.
5050 is run by the Fifty Years team; no single permanent program director is named publicly.
03
THE PROGRAM
What is 5050?
5050 teaches scientists how to choose a problem, validate a market and form a company.
04
WHO IT IS FOR
Who should consider it?
- Scientists, PhDs and postdocs
- People considering a move from research into company building
- Applicants available for the twelve-week program
05
SUPPORT
What do you get?
- Free curriculum and founder community
- Mentors and investor access
- No fee and no equity taken
Do not misread this
5050 itself does not provide investment or a grant. The next listed program is upcoming in 2027.
06
PUBLIC EVIDENCE
What does the public record show?
The broader portfolio spans synthetic biology, climate, health, manufacturing, food, materials and infrastructure. The 5050 program is a founder-development route within that ecosystem.
How to read this evidence
Examples show institutional or program history. They do not predict admission, funding, ownership terms or outcomes for a new applicant.
07
APPLICATION
How do you apply?
- Join the next-cycle notice
- Submit the program application when open
- Complete interviews if invited
- Use the program to prepare for later fundraising
DNA Future research note. This is an independent editorial profile based on official sources. Program terms and availability can change; the institution’s current materials take precedence.
Last reviewed · 13 October 2026