The Harvard Business School (HBS) Arthur Rock Center for Entrepreneurship has announced its Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIRs), Venture Builders, Venture Capital Advisors (VCAs), and Legal Specialists (LSs) for 2026-2027. This initiative aims to provide HBS students with unparalleled access to a comprehensive network of entrepreneurship experts.
Key Highlights:
-
Expanded Advisory Network: The Rock Center introduces a new category, Venture Builders, who are recent founders with hands-on startup experience. They offer practical insights on launching and scaling ventures.
-
Role of EIRs: EIRs, appointed by the HBS dean, act as mentors and collaborators, guiding students through the challenges of entrepreneurship with their extensive backgrounds in various sectors.
-
Diverse Expertise: The 2026-2027 cohort includes experts in fields such as AI, climate technology, healthcare, fintech, and more. This diversity allows for tailored advice aligned with specific entrepreneurial challenges.
-
Mentorship Structure: Students will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with 18 EIRs, develop insights through Rock Center programs, and collaborate with faculty on entrepreneurial research.
-
Support System: The advisory network includes not only EIRs and Venture Builders but also Venture Capital Advisors and Legal Specialists who provide guidance on fundraising strategies, legal issues, and market positioning, ensuring comprehensive support for startups.
-
Community Legacy: A significant number of the experts are HBS alumni, underlining a strong tradition of founders mentoring the next generation.
Founded in 2003 by venture capitalist Arthur Rock, the Rock Center continues to fortify HBS’s reputation as a leader in entrepreneurship education and innovation.
