Startups are an important part of the MIT CSAIL ecosystem, acting as tangible vehicles for translating CSAIL’s cutting-edge research into real world impact through products and services that can benefit society. To support this aspect of innovation, we have two startup-focused programs specifically tailored for emerging companies: Startup Connect (for research that spun out of CSAIL) and Startup Connect Plus (for early venture startups who are not associated with the lab but would like to be). Together, these programs allow new companies to benefit from the resources and network that CSAIL and CSAIL Alliances offer while enhancing CSAIL’s vibrant entrepreneurial community.
Created with CSAIL spinoff companies in mind, Startup Connect is for companies created from CSAIL research. This program is for CSAIL-affiliated startups who:
- Are less than 5 years old
- Have less than $5M in revenue
- Include alumni that are less than 5 years post-graduation
The benefits of being a part of Startup connect include:
- Invitations to lectures and member-only workshops
- Ability to send up to 5 representatives to the CSAIL Alliances Program Annual Meeting, which showcases the latest research from the lab, as well as student projects and start ups
- Connection with other CSAIL Alliances members
- Attend recruiting opportunities in the lab and participate in lab 'talent showcases'
- Startup Connect events during the year to network with CSAIL researchers, students, and member companies of Alliances and research initiatives
- It’s free!
This program was created for startups that don’t necessarily have an affiliation with CSAIL or MIT but would like to be a part of our vibrant startup ecosystem. Membership at this level is designed for early venture startup companies (<10 years and <$10M revenue, must have MVP) that would like to connect to the lab, the researchers, the students, and the emerging technologies. The annual membership fee is $2,900.
The benefits of Startup Connect Plus are:
- Invitations to lectures and member-only workshops
- Ability to send up to 5 representatives to the CSAIL Alliances Annual Meeting, which showcases the latest research from the lab as well as student projects and startups
- Connect with other CSAIL Alliance members
- Host one Tech Talk event per year
- Post open job positions on the Alliance web site
- Attend startup events during the year to network the with CSAIL community
- Access to MIT's Startup Exchange program for additional corporate introductions and potential partnership opportunities. Register here for consideration: Startup Exchange
- 10-20% discount on CSAIL professional education programs
- Access to Alliances Startup Ecosystem Guide
- Complimentary passes to select conferences
Due to the rapid growth in our program, we are no longer accepting new members into SUC+. New applicants, if qualified, will be added to a waitlist. Prospective members will be contacted when space permits.
Please fill out this interest form.
Christiana Kalfas at ckalfas@csail.mit.edu will be in touch after receiving the form.
