Exostellar, a startup born from Cornell research, has achieved an outcome many entrepreneurs dream of – acquisition by a Fortune 500 company. Qualcomm acquired Exostellar, launched in 2018 by computer science professors Hakim Weatherspoon and Robbert van Renesse and former postdoctoral researcher Zhiming Shen, Ph.D. ’17, in March.
Southern Tier Startup Alliance (STSA)
December 4, 2022
The Southern Tier Startup Alliance (STSA) is a member organization of business incubators in the Southern Tier region of New York. Through the support of NYSTAR, STSA works to unite the contributions of business incubators and entrepreneurial resources throughout the region, helping to enhance the scope of existing services and to provide additional support to Southern Tier entrepreneurs and startups. STSA also serves as Launch New York’s representative in the Southern Tier, helping connect startups with funding and mentorship.
Since 2016:
- 462 new financial deals supported through STSA
- Over $1B total financial deals closed by STSA startups
- 188 total groups investing in the Southern Tier
STSA News
Qualcomm acquires Cornell AI software startup
$45M Raised, 114 New Jobs Created: I-Corps Startups Accelerate Deep Tech Growth in 2025
Startup ventures emerging from I-Corps teams welcomed a total of 119 new paid employees during the year. Alumni secured $16,617,873 in SBIR and STTR awards and raised $29,713,562 in capital to support research, commercialization progress, and long-term scaling.
Empire State Development Announces Application Window Open For Round Eight Of The $3 Million Grow-NY International Food And Agriculture Competition
Up to 20 high-growth potential food and agriculture startups from around the world will be selected as finalists to compete for $3 million in total prize money. Applications will be accepted through May 15, 2026.
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.
