Program Overview
Offered through Lehigh College of Business, Startup Academy is an immersive, 10-week academic practicum and entrepreneurial talent accelerator based in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area—one of the world’s most vibrant startup ecosystems.
Through a three-credit course, students engage in rigorous, hands-on learning while contributing directly to high-growth startups and innovation teams. Paired with Bay Area founders and industry leaders, students apply entrepreneurial thinking, market analysis, innovation strategy, and product development skills to real business challenges.
Students live as a cohort in-residence in San Francisco for 9 weeks during the summer program, with housing provided, fostering a tight-knit, collaborative community. The combination of academic rigor, industry immersion, and network access makes the Lehigh Startup Academy a powerful launchpad for both student career trajectories and the growth ambitions of participating companies.
Why It Matters
- Real Learning - Startup Academy uniquely develops students as builders, regardless of their major
- Real Experience with Real Impact - You will see what it takes to turn ideas into action, how startups adopt emerging technologies such as AI in real time, and how to create value when there is no playbook
- Real Connections - Access to the global hub of innovation provides students the opportunity to build their network and learn from Silicon Valley leaders and entrepreneurs
- Real Outcomes - Whether you want to launch a venture, build products, join an early-stage team, or drive innovation, Startup Academy helps you develop the judgment, adaptability, and entrepreneurial mindset to think like a builder
Investment
- Tuition: $3,060 (summer tuition rates apply)
- Program Dates: May 24th-July 30th, 2027 (10 Weeks)
- Program Format: Week 1 - remote // Weeks 2-10 in residence
- What’s Included:
- 3-credit course + internship (unpaid)
- Housing is provided in San Francisco
- $3000 stipend (intended to offset travel and meal expenses)
- Networking opportunities with alumni, professionals, and guest speakers
- Access to Lehigh West office space at 201 Mission in San Francisco
- Photo on Nasdaq Tower in Times Square
- What’s Not Included:
- Meals
- Travel to/from Silicon Valley
- Miscellaneous Living Expenses + Personal Outings
What you get
- Hands-on venture projects with startups
- Integrated classroom learning & faculty oversight
- Personalized coaching & mentorship
- Guest speakers & Silicon Valley site visits
- A strong cohort experience
- Housing & stipend provided
*Need-based financial aid is available through Lehigh's Student Opportunity Fund, and the High-Impact Experience Opportunity Fellowship. These are not affiliated with Startup Academy and require a separate application and decision process.