Student Entrepreneur Fund

Overview of Student Entrepreneur Fund

This program, provided through the generosity of donors to the Ain Center for Entrepreneurship, provides financial support for students pursuing unpaid or low paid internships at local and regional not-for-profit organizations and start-up/early stage companies.

The program, which is open to Simon MBA and MS students in any discipline, MS Technical Entrepreneurship and Management students and undergraduate business students, is designed to help students build their skills, explore career options and connect classroom learning to the outside world of work.

Funding Eligibility

• The program is open to Simon MBA and Simon MS students in any discipline, MS Technical Entrepreneurship and Management students and undergraduate business students (rising juniors and seniors).
• Funding is available to help students manage personal expenses while they pursue unpaid and low paid experiential education opportunities including internships, volunteer work and research projects.
• Students may apply for funds to help cover living and travel costs, not outside registration fees for academic experiences.
• Grant amounts generally range from $1,000 to $4,000, depending on the hours of work per week and duration of the internship.
• Actual amounts will be determined based on need, available funds, and proof of offer.
• Applications will be approved by the Vice Provost for Entrepreneurship and program administrators.

Application Process

• To be eligible for funding, students must complete the online application form (use the button to the right) and attach a resume. Included on the form is a description of the organization, the position, and how the experience would relate to educational objectives consistent with the students’ degree program. Contact information of the individual who will be supervising/mentoring the student is also required.
• Students applying for funds must be in good academic standing in their programs and not scheduled to complete their programs until at least the December after their internship.
• If international, students must complete the required documentation and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) forms.
• Students are required to complete a substantial written report (2 to 5 pages) outlining the results achieved and the progress made toward educational objectives.

Prior to the application deadline, students should consult with Kathy Driscoll of the Ain Center for Entrepreneurship. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.