Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the Inquiry Institute
Is this a university?
No. The Inquiry Institute is not a university, college, or accredited educational institution. We are a new kind of intellectual institution being built through patronage. We do not offer degrees, certificates, or formal accreditation. We are not seeking accreditation—our value comes from the quality of inquiry, learning, and community we build, not from institutional credentials.
Is it accredited?
No. The Inquiry Institute is not accredited by any educational accrediting body. We are not seeking accreditation. Our value comes from the quality of inquiry, learning, and community we build, not from institutional credentials.
Is this real yet?
Yes and no. We are in active pre-launch. Our platform and faculty agents are in development (Phase 1). Courses, salons, and full membership features are coming (Phase 2-3). What exists now: our website, faculty personas, vision, and the beginning of our community. What's coming: structured courses, Villa Diodati salons, member portal, and more. You can support our development through OpenCollective.
How is this funded?
The Inquiry Institute is funded through transparent patronage via OpenCollective. Supporters can contribute to specific Works (initiatives) or to general operations. All funds are managed transparently, and contribution amounts are never displayed publicly—patronage is about presence, not transactions.
What do I get if I support?
Support is about patronage—helping create something new, not buying access. That said, supporters receive: recognition (if desired), updates on progress, early access to new programs as they launch, and the satisfaction of helping build a new intellectual institution. Membership tiers (Sustainer, Lantern Bearer, Institutional Patron) offer additional benefits as they develop. Tuition for courses is separate—framed as an offering toward shared understanding rather than a purchase.
When will courses be available?
Courses are in Phase 2 of our roadmap. We're currently in Phase 1 (Platform & Faculty). Courses will launch as we secure funding for course development. Join our mailing list to be notified when courses become available.
How do I become a member?
Membership is coming soon. For now, you can support the Institute through OpenCollective. When membership opens, supporters will have priority access. Join our mailing list to be notified when membership registration begins.
Who runs this?
The Inquiry Institute is being built by a community of inquirers, with governance through a DAO (decentralized autonomous organization) structure. Financial operations are transparently managed via OpenCollective. Learn more about our governance on our About page.
How do I contact you?
You can reach us through our contact page or by email. We also welcome questions and engagement through our mailing list and OpenCollective discussions.
Still have questions?
Visit our Start Here page, check out our About page, or contact us.