RIT Student Business Development Lab

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: What is the Student Business Development Program?

A: This unique RIT program allows selected students to integrate experiential learning events into their entrepreneurship and innovation curriculum. These events could entail advancing a student business, working with other students on a product development team, or developing a commercialization plan for new technology.

Q: Can I gain course or coop credit for advancing a new business idea?

A: Yes. Students may apply to the program to gain course credit from the College of Business to advance their business concept. With the support and approval of their home college/department they may also coop credit. Additionally, students may become involved with the program without any formal credit.

Q: Does entering the program mean we get an office in the Student Laboratory located in the RIT Incubator?

A: The Student Business Development Laboratory is a space dedicated to students on the first floor of the RIT High Tech Incubator. Students in the program can gain access to the Lab’s facilities which includes cubicles, conference rooms, mailing addresses, etc. Only a limited number of offices exist which are typically provided to advanced and select student teams for an 11 week period. Some students employ the Lab for meetings, mailing addresses etc. The major of students in the program do not regularly reside in the laboratory.

Q: What type of assistance can RIT provide for me with starting a business or commercializing a product?

A: In edition to existing RIT courses, students gain access to the infrastructure of the RIT Incubator. Whereas RIT typically does not provide start up funds, it does employ experienced professionals who have started and coached many businesses. The incubator also hosts alumni volunteers to provide insight into critical issues related to incorporation, team building, and partnering agreements.

Q: Do I need a faculty sponsor?

A: Yes, but students are free to develop faculty/staff sponsors from different areas of the university. Richard DeMartino, Associate Professor of Management, administers the program and is available to assist students in developing a team, locating faculty and business mentors, and gaining access to facilities. Interested students or faculty members should contact Dr. DeMartino with questions.

Q: How do I apply to the Program or what do I need to be accepted?

A: Not all student business projects are appropriate for the program. The program is intended to promote the advancement of multi-disciplinary student business projects. Most of the intended projects are innovation-related, scalable, and include technical, creative, and business related skills. Previous projects include websites and portals, software services, software, search engines, computer gaming, etc. Gaining a faculty sponsor is crucial to students entering the program. For more information see the Program Guidelines.

Student Business Development Lab Related Links

• Entering the Program (course or co-op credit)
• Entry Requirements & Duration
• Location / Map / Directions