Areas of Impact

Startup Postdocs are interested in the application of digital technologies in a broad sense. The faculty at the Jacobs Technion-Cornell Institute and Cornell Tech includes experts in connective media, health technology, security and privacy, computer vision and a number of other fields. We select Startup Postdocs with related backgrounds so they can tap into the excellent resources and mentors already here. Runway also deeply values the collaboration, communication and camaraderie that develops amongst cohort members. With their shared backgrounds, Startup Postdocs also advise each other, solve problems and spark pivotal ideas by working together.

From PhD to Entrepreneur

We begin our program with a unique learning experience: a 5-day intensive workshop on how to discover the most valuable market opportunities for their innovation. This hands-on workshop presents a visual business tool- the Market Opportunity Navigator– to help postdocs in overviewing their potential markets, developing an open mindset that avoids locking in, and eventually setting a smart strategic focus. During the workshop, postdocs apply the Market Opportunity Navigator on their own business idea and go through one full cycle of the process. The wide perspective that this workshop provides is essential before moving to the next step- validating a specific market opportunity through intensive customer interviews and minimum viable products.

Mentorship

You’re an expert in your field. Would you expect anything less from your mentors? At Runway, you’ll connect with business advisors who understand your industry and can provide game-changing professional connections, market insight, and strategic guidance. Our network of business mentors and consultants include serial entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, IP legal experts, and more. Tell us what you need. We’ll provide the introductions.