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Futuristic Tech Cube

The Venture Lab: From Neural Circuits to Startups

A 12-week accelerator for students building AI, agent systems, and cognitive tech.

The Venture Lab is CRAI’s translation program, helping student teams launch
products and prepare to secure further funding.

Apply by the 5th of March 2026

The Offering

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Mentorship
 

Bi-weekly 1:1 sessions with mentors in AI systems, product, and commercialization, focused on decisions you can act on each week.

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Product Curriculum

Workshops on problem selection, validation, prototyping, user testing, and pitching—designed for technical builders.

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Technical Resources

Access (as appropriate) to compute and lab resources. Some tools may require project fit and approvals.

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Business Development

Tailored business development strategies to enhance your operations, boost revenue, and reach your goals.

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Roadmap

A structured 12-week path

Phase 1: Ideation

Weeks 1–4

Dive deep to validate the issue and shape it into a clear and achievable Minimum Viable Product (MVP).  Together we embrace the challenge and turn your ideas into reality!

Phase 3: Traction

Weeks 9–11

We focus on enhancing your signals to ensure they resonate effectively with your target. By refining your positioning, we help you stand out in a crowded market and communicate your unique value proposition clearly. Together, we work to elevate your brand and drive success.

Phase 2: Prototyping

Weeks 5–8

Be part of our dynamic team where you will have the opportunity to create, refine, and test innovative solutions alongside users. 

Demo Day

Week 12

The Demo Day serves as a launch pad for your products, providing a unique opportunity to showcase your innovations and connect with potential investors and partners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a fully formed idea?

No. You can apply with a problem area you care about and a hypothesis you want to test.

Is it open to undergraduates?

Yes (if applicable). We evaluate teams based on commitment and execution, not seniority.

Does the lab take equity? What are the terms?

Terms are currently negotiable and depend on the project. At this stage, the program does not provide direct funding.

We help teams build, validate, launch, and prepare to secure follow-on funding through grants, partners, and investors.

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Ready to Build?

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