Application for Fall 2021 Watson Semester Accelerator program is open! Apply now!
The Fall 2021 Watson Semester Accelerator program will be offered in a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual participation options. The hybrid Watson Semester Accelerator is a program for college students, recent graduates, and gap-year students with an early-stage venture/project and a passion for impact. The in-person format is available only to those based in the U.S. and will be limited to twelve Scholars. Admissions decisions will be made on a rolling basis. U.S.-based individuals are encouraged to apply early to secure an in-person spot. The program takes place from August 23 to December 10, 2021.
During the 4-month program, a cohort of next-generation innovators, leaders, and entrepreneurs from across the globe convene in person and virtually to tackle complex problems and forge lives and careers of impact. From climate change to social justice and from poverty to access to quality education, Scholars selected to the hybrid Watson Semester Accelerator leverage training, mentorship, and community to accelerate their ventures and unleash lives of impact.
Looking for fully-funded opportunities, install the Youth Opportunities Android or iOS App here.
Courses: The Watson Semester Accelerator curriculum was developed by examining best practices in supporting entrepreneurs worldwide and consolidated into a curriculum that provides students with the hard and soft skills, methodologies, and frameworks required to successfully grow a venture and lead an impactful career. Each course is led by one of Watson Institute’s Preceptors, who themselves are accomplished entrepreneurs, leaders, and expert facilitators.
Master Courses: Watson Master Course Teachers are the world’s foremost leaders, entrepreneurs, and practitioners. Master Courses may range from a fireside chat to an interactive workshop, and revolve around sharing best practices, as well as learnings and failures. Each week a Master Course Teacher will share their entrepreneurial journey and experience followed by one on one mentorship sessions with the Watson students.
Selection Criteria:
Watson Institute is on the search for young people who are motivated to work towards a future that is better, more sustainable, and more equitable than the present. They’re looking for people who are gritty, creative, and driven to not only listen and learn but also act. They’re on a quest to find the world’s most promising next-generation innovators, leaders, and entrepreneurs.
Location:
OnlineBenefits
Throughout the program, students will be provided with-
- Training: Intensive courses and workshops focused on the hard and soft skills of entrepreneurship and transformative leadership
- Mentorship: Every student is paired with mentors in their field to challenge their assumptions, enhance their perspective, and expand their impact
- Community: Students join a diverse cohort with members from every corner of the globe, a variety of experiences, and a common goal to impact the world
- Scholarships covering up to 50% of the cost of tuition are available based on merit and financial need as well.
- Below is the total cost of the Watson Semester Accelerator in Boulder, Colorado:
- Tuition: $12,000
- Housing: $3,000
- Total: $15,000
Eligibilities
- This program is for early-stage entrepreneurs, innovators and leaders with a bias towards action and the gritty idealism required to solve complex problems
- The Venture Founder track is for students who are founders or co-founders of a venture or project. The Venture Funder may collaborate with a Free Agent track student attending the same cohort.
- The Free Agent track is for students looking to join a venture or project and are prepared to contribute in significant ways to the team. Free Agents join a Venture Founder’s team at the beginning of the cohort.
Application Process
To apply for the Fall 2021 Accelerator program please click on Apply Now where you can apply for in-person or virtual participation options. (The in-person format is available only to U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, or those carrying a valid U.S. visa.)
Looking for fully-funded opportunities, install the Youth Opportunities Android or iOS App here.
Application Deadline: June 1, 2021
Application ClosedOfficial link
