In addition to group programming, our subject matter experts will dive deep with you one-on-one in areas such as company strategy, financial planning, social media and public relations, go-to-market and sales, and sourcing and production.
R E I Co-op Path Ahead Ventures Navigate
You set the course. We help you Navigate.
Navigate empowers founders to scale your business
The Navigate program supports emerging Black, Indigenous, Latina/o/x, and Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) entrepreneurs in the outdoor industry by offering opportunities to connect, learn, and grow. We provide funding, mentorship, curated programming, and access to REI’s experts in production, distribution, marketing services, and talent.
Applications are currently closed
Structured, hands-on support
Navigate is a 4-month program providing a customized learning experience that addresses your company’s specific pain points and equips you with funding, mentorship, and strategic guidance. You’ll have opportunities to meet with and learn from experienced partners both inside and outside the industry. Through your cohort, you'll build a network with founders of companies at a similar stage.
Not a great fit for Navigate? Check out our other programs.
Individualized support
Customer connection
You will benefit from insights we've gained from REI's 20 million+ members in areas relevant to your product, marketing, and sales. Program events like our Founders Market will put you directly in front of REI members and customers.
Capital investment
Not only will all Navigate participants receive a $25,000 grant, you will also have the option for direct investments from our $30M fund.
Community network
Partnership is key to who we are as a brand and organization. You'll have direct access to an outdoor-focused community of mentors, investors, experts, other founders, and REI Co-op connections.
Interested in joining us?
Check out our application criteria:
You have built a company that provides a product that aligns with REI values, inspires people, and equips them in their outdoor lives.
Your business is in the activity or outside categories (apparel, footwear, gear, or CPG).
You have at least one founder who is Black, Indigenous, Latina/o/x, or Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI), holds an active leadership position in the company, and who received at least 20% founder's equity at initial incorporation.
You are over 18, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and your company is U.S.-based.
Your company has between $75K and $2M in revenue in the past twelve months.
The Navigate experience
See what you could experience as a founder in the Navigate program.
Founder spotlight
Xiaonan (Claire) Zhu (she/her)Founder, Hootie HooHootie Hoo believes some of the best lessons and habits in life are learned outside. Hootie Hoo provides high-quality technical apparel for children so they can stay comfortable and spend more time outside.
Founder experience
In their own words
“Navigate is a wonderful opportunity to connect with CPG leaders and founders who care about being outside. I've learned an incredible amount and made lasting friendships. I would highly recommend [the program] for other founders.”
Mitch Gilbert (they/them)
Founder & CEO, OYA
“Some days we were out of our depths and on others we were deep in our element. The only constant in Navigate was the feeling that anything was possible.”
Jennifer Jacobson (she/her) & Livio Melo (he/him)
Co-founders, Allmansright
“No matter where you are in your business, Navigate will take you to the next level. It’s scalable and adaptable to your needs.”
Sidney Baptista (he/him)
Founder & CEO, PYNRS
Core components
In the Navigate program, you’ll be connected with REI’s industry-leading experts through on-site immersion, one-to-one advising sessions, and virtual workshops.
Basecamp
Kick off the program with a week together at REI’s HQ in the Seattle area. It’s time to get to know your cohort, meet with the REI program team and merchants in your categories, and dive into our curriculum.
Our curriculum
Growth sessions
Participate in group learning covering many functional topics, as well as one-on-one deep dives into your company’s specific circumstances with a subject matter expert to set goals, determine resource needs, and set action plans. Follow-up expert office hours available.
Creative services
Partner with our creative team for guidance in branding, messaging, audience research, or UX services, based on your company’s largest area of need.
Founder stories
Hear experienced founders in the industry share their unique, unfiltered stories about building their brand.
Ongoing support
Bi-weekly one-on-one meetings with our program team, cohort coffee chats, and mentorship connections.
Founders Market
Participate in a pop-up shop at REI’s Seattle flagship store where you can connect with customers, sell your products and increase brand awareness.
Live demo event
Close out the program with a demo event to showcase your company to REI employees, ecosystem supporters, investors, and other retailers.
Frequently asked questions
Want to get in touch? pathaheadventures@rei.com