Selective program
For companies whose product is ready before their commercial capability is.
A small number of early-stage physical-product companies work with AFS under a launch partnership: the same commercial execution as a full engagement, structured for a company that cannot yet carry a senior commercial cost.
What a launch partnership is
A longer, deeper engagement with a small number of companies, structured so that AFS shares in the commercial outcome rather than being paid entirely in fees. The work is the same work described elsewhere on this site: market mapping, channel development, trade-show strategy, technical sales, and the systems needed to scale. What differs is the commitment on both sides and how it is compensated.
Terms are agreed case by case and may combine reduced fees with performance-linked or equity components. Nothing is standardized, and no arrangement is entered into without both parties taking independent legal and financial advice.
What we look for
All of these, not most of them.
- A physical product, built and functioning, not a concept or a rendering
- Evidence that at least one customer has used it in a real operating environment
- A clear technical advantage that can be demonstrated and measured
- A market in agriculture, construction, or industrial operations that AFS can work in credibly
- Manufacturing capacity, or a credible route to it, sufficient to serve early demand
- Founders who will make commercial decisions quickly and stand behind them
- A commercial gap that is the binding constraint, rather than a product or funding gap
How a partnership is assessed
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Initial enquiry
A short written summary of the product, the customers to date, the market, and what is currently blocking commercial progress.
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Technical and market review
A working session on the product, the application, the competitive position, and the realistic addressable segments.
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Scoped pilot
A paid, time-boxed piece of work, usually a market and channel assessment. Both sides find out how the other works before committing further.
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Partnership terms
If both sides want to continue, terms are drafted with independent advisers on each side and reviewed against defined milestones.
What this is not
It is not investment, and AFS does not provide capital, fundraising services, or introductions presented as investment advice. It is not an incubator or a program with cohorts and a fixed curriculum. Capacity is limited to a small number of companies at a time, and most enquiries are better served by a standard engagement.
Enquire about a launch partnership
Use the contact form and select the launch partnership option. Include what the product does, who has used it, what stage manufacturing is at, and where the commercial process is currently stopping.