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Cornell University

Center for Regional Economic Advancement

We support and empower people to start and grow new ventures

eLab: Cornell’s Student Accelerator

December 14, 2022
A large crowd gathers for eLab Demo Day© Cornell University
A collaboration of Student Agencies Foundation and Entrepreneurship at Cornell

A Student Agencies and Entrepreneurship at Cornell program supported by CREA

Founded in 2008, eLab is unlike any other entrepreneurship class—it is a student accelerator that launches 8-12 real businesses each year. Student teams spend one year evolving their business plans, speaking with potential customers, pitching to investors, and preparing for launch.

The program attracts some of the brightest and most driven students in the nation. Students from any study across the Cornell campus can apply to the program and, once accepted, they are connected to an invaluable network of successful Cornell alumni that are eager to help them succeed.

Students graduate with the experience, skills, and connections to launch successful companies.

Students in eLab take 4.5 credits of courses at the Johnson School. CREA staff provides program management support and funding is provided by Entrepreneurship at Cornell.

eLab News

Introducing the 2026 Introduction to Entrepreneurship Cohort

Introducing the 2026 Introduction to Entrepreneurship Cohort

The Introduction to Entrepreneurship program, formerly known as W.E. Cornell, teaches doctoral students and postdocs how to translate their research into real-world solutions while navigating the challenges of leading a technology-based venture. Designed for STEM innovators, the program blends a proven entrepreneurship curriculum with leadership development and a strong emphasis on empowerment.
15 Teams Advance to eLab Spring Cohort

15 Teams Advance to eLab Spring Cohort

33 startups were accepted for the eLab student startup accelerator fall cohort, and 15 will advance to the spring cohort. These startups have made significant progress and identified a viable pathway to a scalable business.
Introducing the 6th Manufacturing Hardware Accelerator Cohort

Introducing the 6th Manufacturing Hardware Accelerator Cohort

Rev: Ithaca Startup Works is excited to announce the 20 startups making up the sixth Manufacturing Hardware Accelerator cohort. The accelerator helps teams turn their advanced prototypes into manufactured products. Participants gain access to business mentorship, connections to local manufacturers, and introductions to investors.
Jiang Fellows rolls out new cohort

Jiang Fellows rolls out new cohort

The Jiang Fellows program recently welcomed 27 students to its 2026 cohort in its second year of operation. This spring, fellows will sharpen their entrepreneurial skills while preparing for a fully funded summer internship at a startup of their choice.