Entrepreneurs in Residence

An entrepreneur in residence (EIR) is a seasoned professional with the expertise and skills required to carry an idea or technology from concept to commercialization. The ideal EIR hopes to build the next startup by identifying viable commercialization opportunities within the Venture Lab’s pre-accelerator program. They collaborate with a dedicated team to secure early-stage capital, allowing the venture to validate ideas with customers, determine product-market fit and develop products for commercialization and launch.

Although the EIR's role has flexibility, it's always an opportunity to lead founders toward successful deliverables and outcomes. The EIR acts as an interim executive chairman and is the team's driver during the Venture Lab process and throughout the recruitment of a CEO.

• A demonstrated history of successfully bringing ideas to market
• Expansive experience in running high-growth companies
  
• Proven expertise in product development and technology commercialization
  
• An entrepreneurial spirit, with enthusiasm for early-stage technology ventures
• Excellent communication skills allowing for effective collaboration with diverse teams
• Unique blend of experience, interpersonal skills, leadership abilities and industry knowledge
• A credible yet humble leader, able to support teams in unfamiliar environments

Given the critical role of the EIR to a team's success, we've developed a streamlined yet intentional process to ensure an ideal fit within the Venture Lab community. This approach also helps us cultivate and discover new EIR talent.

1. An individual who wants to serve as an EIR should begin by contacting Kate Harmon at harmonkr@ucmail.uc.edu to schedule a brief discussion to learn more about the Venture Lab. You'll also share background experiences, qualifications and motivations for becoming an EIR.
   
2. Once accepted into the program, EIRs are required to attend weekly pre-accelerator sessions in person to mentor teams. EIRs are also expected to attend the pre-accelerator graduation presentations for each cohort, held four times per year. This engagement is crucial for identifying and evaluating teams that EIRs may want to guide toward commercialization.
   
3. Reach out to Kate Harmon to understand the pitch process for Venture Lab funding if you find a team at graduation that you'd like to move toward commercialization with.

The Venture Lab welcomes qualified, passionate individuals who wish to lend their expertise and connections to our teams, even if they can't commit to the EIR role. Coaches play a vital role in the pre-accelerator program by working closely with teams each week and mentoring them through the program. Coaches can attend many events and are encouraged to participate as desired. If you're interested in becoming a coach, please contact Kate Harmon at harmonkr@ucmail.uc.edu.