1.    I do not operate an existing social venture currently, am I still eligible to apply?

Yes. You do not need to have already started your own social enterprise. The spirit of the Harvard ATVenture competition is to inspire young entrepreneurs and guide them in the process of starting their own venture. We strongly suggest you look over and follow the application guidelines when writing your business proposal.

2.    Is there a fee for the Harvard ATVenture program?

There is no application fee for the Harvard ATVenture competition. However, if your team is selected after the interview round to participate in the competition at Harvard, each team member is asked to submit a $400 USD program registration fee. Financial aid may be granted upon request. (As HAUSCR is a non-profit organization, the registration fee will be used to cover all learning materials, facility fees, as well as certain meals during the 5-day conference. We strongly suggest you to seek funding support from your university).

Additionally, each team member is responsible for his or her own visa and travel expenses throughout the competition.

We will provide housing on-campus. Students will get to live with fellow Harvard College students during the competition.

3. Will I need to apply for my own passport and visa?

Yes, each candidate will be responsible for obtaining his or her own passport and visa. However, HAUSCR will provide all the necessary documents and supporting material for accepted candidates.

4. I am currently studying abroad at a university outside of China. Am I eligible to apply?

Yes. Our competition is open to all students enrolled in an accredited university. The only restraint is that the project must significantly involve and impact China.

5.  Can we build a team from different universities?

Yes. As long as team members are eligible for the competition, teams can span a number of varieties. However, the goal of the ATVenture program is to help students carry out their business plans into real ventures. Thus, having teams that span different universities usually decreases the project’s chances of being carried out. Therefore, we strongly suggest teams being made of students from the same university to increases the feasibility of the venture.

6.  Will ATVenture provide a long-term support?

Yes. An ATVenture Alumni Club will be established for mentorship and communication between all ATVenture participants.

7.  What prizes will the winner of the competition receive?

Firstly, all participants will receive written certificates verifying their participation in the competition. Additionally, the first place team will receive seed funding to actually carry out its proposal. The top teams will also receive the opportunity to network and have a private meal with top Asian angel investors. As we are still forming new partnerships with various organizations everyday, more prizes may be added.

8.    If my question is not listed above, how can I contact the committee?

Please e-mail any questions or concerns to harvardatventure@hauscr.org.