GOAL: Build a company with 600 people from the ground up.

Join the 404 is a live experiment in company formation and regulation.
Our mission is simple: let’s create a software house and consultancy owned and run by its members.

We’re bringing together 600 students and industry professionals to collaborate, vote in weekly polls, and build something real from the ground up.

For students, this is a rare opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience working on real projects alongside seasoned professionals, the kind of experience that goes far beyond the classroom. You’ll learn how modern companies operate, contribute to real deliverables, and see your ideas shape the company’s direction.

Each member will own a share of the company’s total equity, gaining hands-on experience and a potential stake in something global. You’ll commit around 30 minutes per week, help shape company decisions, and work toward growing your company's skills and experience.

We will cover and try real world scenarios, from experimental marketing, risk analysis, automation, Ai, ML, Crypto, Robotics, Finance, Legal, Sales, Marketing and Administration.

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“What if 600 strangers build something real together?” Join the experiment.

How it works

Step 1

Create an account & apply

Tell us in 280 characters why you should join, and upload a 15-second video.

Step 2

Get selected

We’ll review applications continuously until we reach 600 members.

Step 3

Build together

Attend weekly shareholder meetings, vote in polls, and contribute 30 minutes of your time.

FAQ

What exactly is join the 404?: An experiment to build a company with 600 people. Members meet weekly, vote in polls, and each member can own a share.
What’s the commitment?: 2 coffees and 30 minutes of your time if you’re selected.
How do selections work?: We’ll review 15s video applications continuously until we reach 600 people.
Can I apply again?: One application per person for now.
Is there a financial opt-in?: Yes, there is an option to purchase the course for €5 per week, this gets access to the company shares. This is being used as a method to fund the company.
What if I miss a payment?: There is no penalty, you will still have access to vote in company polls.
Can I have my shares restored if I repay at a later date?: Yes, even if the company was sold, the mission is to give everyone’s time a fair contribution.
Can I join without a financial commitment?: Yes, the subscription is only for people who want to own a stake in the company.
Can I activate my shares if the company is sold?: Not if you have made less than 50% of the contributions.
What does the company do?: The company is a software house and consultancy. That means we build new systems and support existing ones.
What are the benefits of doing this?: If you’re a student, you’ll gain real-world experience working in a company before you graduate. If you’re already employed, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your professional network and demonstrate your capabilities beyond what a degree or certificate can show.
I don’t have many technical skills, but I want to develop my photography and editing skills. Should I apply?: Absolutely! Those skills are valuable to our marketing team, and we’d love to have you.
I’m not in university yet but plan to join next year, and I’m not sure what I want to study. Can I join?: Definitely. By joining and attending meetings, you’ll gain experience in how a company operates. This might help you discover what field you’d like to pursue.
I’d like to contribute but don’t wish to take part or share ownership. Is that possible?: Yes. You can sponsor this initiative. Your contribution can go toward supporting students by funding their participation or recognizing their work.

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