MIT and Harvard have dense startup ecosystems, but it's easy to waste time bouncing between programs. This guide highlights the most relevant resources and how successful student founders typically combine them.
Most successful founders use three to five resources at once: one core program, one community, one funding channel, plus domain-specific support.
Accelerators and Cohort Programs
Structured programs with mentorship, community, and often demo days or funding opportunities.
TNT Accelerator
AI-first accelerator with flexible support, expert mentorship, a strong founder network, and demo day. Selects approximately 20 startups per semester. No equity taken.
MIT delta v
Summer intensive for teams ready to build full time. Requires at least one full-time MIT student on the team.
Harvard i-Lab Venture Program
Semester-based program with structured mentorship and physical workspace at the Student i-lab.
Harvard Q Lab
Best for founders working in defense, national security, or dual-use technology.
Non-Dilutive Funding and Competitions
Grants, competitions, and funding opportunities that don't require giving up equity.
MIT Sandbox Innovation Fund
Staged grants and mentorship. Grants up to $25K per semester. Strong early wedge for testing ideas.
MIT $100K Entrepreneurship Competition
Highly competitive. Strong brand value and investor visibility.
Harvard President's Innovation Challenge
Well suited for early validation and narrative-building.
Community and Workspace
Physical spaces, ongoing advising, and community hubs for founders.
TNT Events
Cofounder matching, cohort dinners, MBA Startupathon, and demo days to meet collaborators and stay engaged.
Academic Courses
For-credit courses that combine learning with building your venture.
Harvard TECH Offerings
Courses and programs focused on venture creation and technology entrepreneurship.
Choose resources that increase speed to real users. Optimize for momentum, not prestige.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're a student founder from MIT, Harvard, or beyond, consider applying to the TNT Accelerator. Built by founders, for founders, with no equity taken.