Being an entrepreneur can be tough. Not only do you have to find seed funding, search for investors, and get the word out about your product or service, but you also have to find a way to connect, networking, and gain the advantages that you need to succeed. Even with time, money, and lots of extra effort, connecting to the right people and finding events and discounts that you deserve may never be something attainable.

A new entrepreneur membership website is hoping to change that way that the business community connects. This site is called FoundersCard, and it’s really all about the card. Essentially, FoundersCard is a small silver (admittedly sleek) card that is sent to all FoundersCard members. With this card, members can gain access to exclusive networking events, connect with other members, and also get some pretty cool incentives.

How FoundersCard Works

Many FoundersCard members are referred by other members, but you can sign up for a FoundersCard (or at least ask for additional information) just by visiting the FoundersCard website. But, before you sign up, you should know that the FoundersCard is not free, so you’ll have to decide if this is a business expense worth justifying. How much does it cost to become one of the business world’s elite?

To gain a FoundersCard, you will have to fork over $495 per year with a one-time paid fee of $65. Now, that might sound like a lot of money for an entrepreneur or any small startup, but there may be some incentives to becoming a FoundersCard member. According to Mashable, FoundersCard members can look forward to rewards and discounts from companies like Virgin Atlantic Airways, W. Hotels, Apple, St. Regis Hotels and other popular companies. As mentioned, you’ll also gain access to networking events that are usually sold out.

As an added bonus, you can also decide to offer other FoundersCard members a discount on your product or company. These details are contained in the initial sign-up membership package that FoundersCard will send to you when you pay that membership fee (your silver card will arrive in the mail). Mashable didn’t mention anything about FoundersCard working outside of the United States, so I’m going to assume that this company is operating in the U.S. only at the moment. However, if the idea catches on, FoundersCard is bound to spread to other countries as well.

Is FoundersCard A Good Investment?

When considering purchasing a FoundersCard membership, you’ll have to ask yourself whether or not this card and site prove to be a good business investment. FoundersCard is relatively new, though the advantages that the company claims to offer do seem sound – and they’ve already managed to hook some rather big names. Of course, that $400+ price tag is somewhat steep for those who are just starting out in the business world (more so for those who haven’t gained a lot of funding just yet).
Still, it’s worth contacting FoundersCard to find out more about this interesting venture and to see what the card might offer your business.