Entrepreneur-in-Residence program
Selected Techstars Startup Weekend teams work with KU's Entrepreneur-in-Residence to test ideas, strengthen ventures and prepare for Founder Catalyst.
Techstars Startup Weekend KUTake your Startup Weekend idea further
The Entrepreneur-in-Residence program helps Jayhawk founders build on the momentum of Techstars Startup Weekend KU.
Following Startup Weekend KU, teams selected for the Founder Pipeline Cohort receive coaching from the Entrepreneur-in-Residence to refine their concept, test assumptions and prepare for the next stage of venture development, including consideration for KU's dedicated seats in Techstars Founder Catalyst.
What you'll work on
The Entrepreneur-in-Residence helps Jayhawk founders:
- Define the problem they're solving, understand their target customer and gather evidence to validate their idea;
- Move a Startup Weekend concept toward a prototype, pilot or other real-world test;
- Strengthen their Founder Catalyst application and develop a compelling, evidence-based pitch.
How the process works
- Participate in Techstars Startup Weekend KU.
- Startup Weekend judges select up to 10 teams for the Founder Pipeline Cohort.
- Work with KU's Entrepreneur-in-Residence through cohort sessions and individual coaching.
- Refine your venture, gather evidence, and test your solution.
- Eligible teams may be considered for KU's dedicated seats in Techstars Founder Catalyst.
What to expect
Structured mentoring begins in mid-January 2027 and runs approximately 6-8 weeks.
During that time, you will:
- Attend cohort-based mentoring sessions.
- Receive one-on-one coaching from the Entrepreneur-in-Residence.
- Develop evidence to support key business decisions.
- Refine your venture concept and pitch.
Please note: Participation in the Founder Pipeline Cohort does not guarantee nomination to or admission into Techstars Founder Catalyst.
“Startup Weekend gets you started. Then the real work begins, and that work is hard. Really, really hard. I’ll work with you on the evidence, the decisions and the execution. Do that well, and you give yourself a shot at Founder Catalyst.