Legendary technology pioneer, iconic Hall of Fame quarterback and leading tech executive join initiative to support the next generation of American innovators
WASHINGTON, D.C. — March 26, 2026 — America250, the national, nonpartisan organization charged by Congress with leading the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, today announced that Steve Wozniak, Joe Montana and Sarah Friar have joined the America’s Startup Investor Council, expanding the program’s mission to support the next generation of entrepreneurs.
America’s Startup is a national competition inviting college students nationwide to pitch bold ideas and early-stage ventures for a shot at funding, mentorship and national recognition. Designed to engage young people at a pivotal moment, the program gives student founders a platform to bring their ideas to life.
“America’s 250th anniversary is not only a moment to reflect on our past, but to invest in the future,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. “By bringing together icons of American ingenuity and leadership, we’re giving the next generation a powerful platform and mentorship to build what comes next.”
Wozniak, co-founder of Apple and a pioneering force in personal computing; Montana, a four-time Super Bowl champion turned venture investor; and Friar, CFO of OpenAI and co-founder of Ladies Who Launch, will join the Investor Council alongside Chair Rios, venture capitalist Tim Draper, and fellow investors Zoe Weinberg (Ex/ante), Yohei Nakajima (Untapped), Jake and Brian Yormak (Story Ventures), Sabeer Bhatia (Hotmail), Rob Soloman (H55, GoFundMe, Groupon), Naveen Jain (Viome Life Sciences), Nick Link (The Residency), and Nick Tawil (O’Shaughnessy Ventures).
“As someone who has spent my life building and championing innovation, I’m excited to hear from these students as they turn ideas into reality,” said Wozniak. “America has always been driven by people who are curious, creative and willing to take risks. Programs like America’s Startup help ensure that spirit continues for the next 250 years.”
“I know firsthand how important it is to have people who believe in you and open doors at the right moment,” said Montana. “America’s Startup is creating that opportunity on a national scale – giving young entrepreneurs the chance to be seen, supported and set up for success.”
“I’ve spent my career working with founders at the earliest stages, and I’ve seen how the right support at the right moment can change everything,” said Friar. “America’s Startup is creating that moment for students across the country – giving them access, mentorship and a real shot to build something meaningful as we look toward America’s 250th.”
The addition of Wozniak, Montana and Friar builds on a growing network of influential business leaders, investors and innovators supporting the initiative, highlighting the ingenuity, ambition and diverse perspectives that define America’s entrepreneurial landscape.
With the March 31, 2026 application deadline approaching, America250 is encouraging college students nationwide to submit their ideas at America250.org. Semifinalists will be invited to Draper University in San Mateo, Calif., from May 1-3, 2026, to pitch to the Investor Council and compete for funding and national recognition.
America’s Startup is one of several flagship initiatives under America250’s America Innovates program, celebrating 250 years of American ingenuity and future innovation.
For more information about upcoming Semiquincentennial events, visit America250.org.
About America250
America250’s mission is to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking America’s Semiquincentennial. We aim to inspire our fellow Americans to reflect on our past, strengthen our love of country, and renew our commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite us as a nation. America250 will foster shared experiences that spark imagination, showcase the rich tapestry of our American stories, inspire service in our communities, honor the enduring strength, and celebrate the resilience of the United States of America.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Contest ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on 3/31/26. Open to U.S. students who are 13+ and enrolled at an accredited university, college or trade school located in the U.S. Semi-Finalists must travel to San Mateo, CA from May 1-3, 2026. See Official Rules for full details including how to enter, eligibility requirements, prize description/restrictions and judging procedure. Void where prohibited.