Research Center Events

Entrepreneurs Challenge Kick-Off Draws Budding Entrepreneurs

More than 450 NYU students, alumni and researchers gathered, standing-room-only, in Paulson auditorium on September 21 to hear about this year’s Entrepreneurs Challenge. Attendees received information about the 12th Annual New Venture Competition and the 8th Annual Social Venture Competition, sponsored by NYU Stern’s Berkley Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. New this year to the Entrepreneurs Challenge was the 1st Annual NYU Technology Venture Competition, hosted by Stern’s Berkley Center and NYU’s Innovation Venture Fund.

The NYU Stern Entrepreneurs Challenge is the premier platform for identifying, nurturing and showcasing entrepreneurial talent at NYU. Lasting eight months, it provides aspiring entrepreneurs with frameworks, mentoring and financial support to stimulate new venture creation. Cash prizes totaling $225K will be awarded to the winners of this year’s competitions.

Tips from Previous Entrepreneurs Challenge Winners


“Be sure to cherry-pick your team, choosing smart and reliable partners.”
Chris Mirabile (BS ’06), College Hotlist
2007 New Venture Competition winner
“Take advantage of the relationship building opportunities throughout the process.”
David Steinberger (MBA '08), Iconology
2007 New Venture Competition winner
“Don’t underestimate the power of a high-quality presentation in influencing investors.”
Melanie Moore, To Vie For
2010 New Venture Competition Winner
“Bootstrapping is key to building your credibility.”
Tim McCollum, Madecasse
2008 Social Venture Competition winner

For more information about the Entrepreneurs Challenge and details on eligibility, requirements and key dates associated with the three competitions, visit the Berkley Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation website.

About the Berkley Center

The NYU Stern Berkley Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation is dedicated to conducting and supporting entrepreneurship research and education.

About the NYU Innovation Venture Fund
The NYU Innovation Venture Fund was created to accelerate the transformation of technology ideas and discoveries from the University’s students, faculty and researchers into viable ventures.