The New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) and Fordham University on Jan. 31 announced the newest class of NYC Venture Fellows, an annual, year-long program to connect emerging entrepreneurs from around the world with mentors from leading companies, for the purpose of growing or expanding their businesses in New York.
Now in its third year, NYC Venture Fellows will begin on Feb. 25 with a series of meetings with leading New York City companies, followed by workshops, panel discussions, and cultural events. The 2013 class of Venture Fellows is comprised of 30 entrepreneurs selected from hundreds of nominees and applicants. Applicants hail from six countries and represent a diverse cross-section of industries–media and emerging tech, biotech, fashion, education, financial services, and real estate.
“The Venture Fellows program is a model for partnerships between universities, government, and private industry,” said Stephen Freedman, Ph.D., provost of the University and professor of ecology and evolutionary biology. “The exposure to current business needs benefits Fordham’s faculty and curriculum, and our intellectual capital is a terrific resource for the fellows and the firms involved in the program.”
Originally launched in December 2010, NYC Venture Fellows program is designed for entrepreneurs whose businesses are at a critical stage in development, where the companies have the potential to substantially increase their employment.
The 2013 class of Venture Fellows was selected by a committee of private and non-profit sector leaders, including Sir Martin Sorrell, CEO of WPP Group; Lawrence Lenihan, founder and managing director of FirstMark Capital; and Joseph M. McShane, S.J., president of Fordham.
New York City Economic Development Corporation is the City’s primary vehicle for promoting economic growth in each of the five boroughs. NYCEDC’s mission is to stimulate growth through expansion and redevelopment programs that encourage investment, generate prosperity and strengthen the City’s competitive position. NYCEDC serves as an advocate to the business community by building relationships with companies that allow them to take advantage of New York City’s many opportunities.
