Fellow for New Ventures
Cornell University's Ignite Fellow for New Ventures program advances Cornell research by supporting graduates in launching technology startups with mentorship, business training, and access to university resources.
Funder: Cornell University
Due Dates: February 19, 2027 (full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: ~$120,000 per fellow for one year; 3–6 fellows selected annually
Summary: Supports entrepreneurial Ph.D. or master’s graduates in launching technology startups based on Cornell research, with funding, mentorship, and business training.
Key Information: Fellowship is a full-time commitment; funding is structured as a SAFE note executed by the startup upon formation.
Description
The Ignite Fellow for New Ventures program at Cornell University, administered by the Center for Technology Licensing, is designed to catalyze the creation of technology-based startups rooted in Cornell research and inventions. The fellowship targets entrepreneurial Ph.D. or master’s graduates and recent degree holders, providing them with one year of funding, intensive mentorship, and business training. Fellows work closely with faculty inventors, receive access to Cornell’s incubator resources, and are guided through the process of commercializing university innovations. The program aims to accelerate technology commercialization, foster new venture creation, and strengthen Cornell’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
