Bill Gurley · Micro-Grants for Dream Chasers
Runnin' Down
a Dream
The people who build extraordinary careers love what they do so much they'd do it for free. This foundation gives them a running start.
Bill Gurley · Micro-Grants for Dream Chasers
The people who build extraordinary careers love what they do so much they'd do it for free. This foundation gives them a running start.
Why We Exist
Bill Gurley's Runnin' Down a Dream captured something true: the people who succeed most tend to love what they do so much that they'd do it for free. But getting there requires more than passion — it often requires a financial bridge.
This foundation exists to build that bridge. For the people who've found their dream but need a running start.
From the speech
"The most successful people I know work incredibly hard. But they don't look like they're working — they look like they're playing. Because for them, there is no difference."
— Bill Gurley, UT McCombs School of Business, 2018
Watch the SpeechWho We're Looking For
We're not looking for the most polished application. We're looking for people who are already doing the work — with or without the money.
Not a prerequisite, but a strong signal. If the book described your life back to you, that's exactly who this is for.
Grants go to people who are showing up — not waiting for permission. What are you building or pursuing right now?
What does $5,000 actually unlock for you? The clearer your answer, the stronger your application.
Grant recipients become part of something bigger — a network of dreamers who are running toward something real.
Step One — Assessment
There are no right answers. We read for honesty, specificity, and the unmistakable sign that you've already started. Strong responses receive an invitation to apply for a $5,000 grant.
Tell us what you're chasing — and what the practice looks like on an ordinary Tuesday.
Show us you're showing up — unpaid and unasked. This is the question that matters most.
Be specific. The clearer your answer, the stronger your application.
5 questions · takes about 10 minutes · we read every response
The Book Behind the Foundation
Based on a talk at the McCombs School at the University of Texas, Runnin' Down a Dream captures the insight that has shaped careers and companies: the people who succeed most tend to love what they do so much that they'd do it for free.
This foundation exists to give that thesis a runway — for the people who've found their dream but haven't yet found their break.
Get the Book →Tell us your story. Strong responses receive an invitation to apply for a $5,000 micro-grant.
Take the AssessmentHelpful Links
Quick access to the public site, assessment review dashboard, and foundation contract.