Pursuing entrepreneurship can seem daunting, but the Activate Fellowship gives early career researchers with big ideas the tools they need to make it possible. This two-year fellowship supports early stage scientists who are eager to turn their innovative research into viable, market-ready technologies by providing comprehensive financial and professional support and essential resources. Plus, with Activate Anywhere, fellows do not need to relocate to complete fellowship requirements. The Activate Fellowship supports scientists at the outset of their entrepreneurial pursuits to increase the accessibility of these ventures and to turn groundbreaking ideas into reality. Learn how to apply here!
THE BENEFITS
By providing access to financial resources, a network of mentors and colleagues, and entrepreneurial coaching, the Activate Fellowship is able to achieve their mission to “empower scientists to reinvent the world by bringing their research to market.” As part of the Activate Fellowship, the Activate Anywhere program allows fellows to complete the fellowship requirements wherever they live, so whether fellows are looking to relocate or hoping to stay where they are, Activate can accommodate an array of needs. Plus, Activate Fellows retain all intellectual property rights created throughout the fellowship. Additional fellowship benefits include:
A Generous Funding Package
Activate Fellows receive a yearly stipend of 100K, plus travel allowance, health insurance, and relocation (if applicable). Additional to the yearly stipend, each project receives $100K in R&D funding and can access $75K+ in flexible capital. By providing funding to fellows, Activate opens the door to pursuing big ideas and makes entrepreneurship accessible.
Supportive Connections and Coaching
The Activate Fellowship provides unparalleled access to entrepreneurial education to help fellows develop key skills necessary for startup success. Additionally, they receive custom-built, regular mentorship and have access to a wide network of professionals, helping them develop priorities and make lasting connections.
Cutting-Edge Research Facilities
Fellows gain access to essential research tools, state-of-the-art equipment, advanced facilities, and specialized expertise by collaborating with a dedicated host laboratory. While Activate Anywhere Fellows tap into their established local facilities, they still benefit from Activate's community and unrivaled support.
The Activate Fellowship has been instrumental in my growth as an entrepreneur and the continued progress of my company, SixLine Semiconductor. The fellowship has provided the financial support necessary to focus solely on my company’s development, along with training and classes that have set me up for success. Additionally, the Activate network and community of entrepreneurs, technical experts, and mentors is unparalleled, offering invaluable guidance and support. I highly recommend the Activate Fellowship to anyone interested in transforming their innovative ideas into commercialized products.
Katy Jinkins, Activate Fellow and CEO & Co-Founder of SixLine Semiconductor
APPLICATION DETAILS
Activate prioritizes candidates who are leaders, have a dedication to diversity and inclusion, and possess deep technical expertise for this fellowship. Exceptional candidates will propose feasible projects to meaningfully affect their field and the world.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Have bachelor’s degree + 4 years post-bachelor’s scientific research, engineering, or technology development experience
- Be leading the commercial development of a hardware-based technology innovation for the first time, BUT still be in the development at the time of deadline
- Not have raised more than $2M in debt or equity funding from non-governmental sources
- Be able to diligently commit 2 years full-time to their proposed project
- Be legally able to work in the United States and speak English
Applications for the 2025 cohort are due on October 23rd, 2024, at 7pm CT
