One Unforgettable Week.
💬 Mentor Sessions
Access private sessions with business leaders, managers, founders and executives working in New York City.
🏢 Company Visits
Step inside renowned New York-based companies typically closed to the public and gain unique insights.
🛠️ Workshops
Participate in hands-on sessions to build practical business skills and learn from experts.
🏆 Business Competition
Work in teams to develop and pitch business ideas, gaining feedback from real investors and professionals.
🤝 Networking Events
Expand your network at curated events with other peers, mentors, and industry leaders.
👥 Community Access
Join a unique community of Fellows and mentors, supporting your growth during and after the NYBF.
Stats and Data About NYC:
<5%
acceptance rate
We Are Selective Because The City Demands It.
Every cohort is small by design. We review every application personally and only extend admission to candidates whose profile, ambition, and intent genuinely fit. Being admitted means something, and so does every person you spend the week with.
Apply and find out if you qualify →Get fast-tracked into the city that never sleeps.
What Fellows Say
Real People. Real Impact.
"Less than a year after Silicon Valley, where I learned how things get built, NYC taught me how they get sold, told and remembered."
"The relationships I built and the insights I gained will continue to shape my personal and professional growth."
"I had my ideas and vision affirmed from the highest caliber of talent in one of the most competitive cities in the world."
Sample Program
Check below what a sample program for the New York Business Fellowship looks like. The official schedule, including selected industries, time slots, mentors and various activities, may change and is subject to availability. The current view reflects a sample program for the Fall 2025 Cohort.
9:00 AM – Welcome & Merch
- Pier 57
11:00 AM – Group Activity
- Little Island
3:00 PM – Mentor Session
- Union Square
6:00 PM – Networking Event
- Rooftop Bar
9:00 AM – Workshop
- Pace University
11:00 AM – Company Visit
- Uber
3:00 PM – Case Competition
- WeWork
6:00 PM – Mentor Session
- WeWork
9:00 AM – Company Visit
11:00 AM – Mentor Session
3:00 PM – Workshop
- Co-working Space
6:00 PM – Informal Dinner
- La Caverna Restaurant
9:00 AM – University Tour
- New York University
11:00 AM – Mentor Session
- Co-working Space
3:00 PM – Company Visit
6:00 PM – Free Evening
- Anywhere
Day 5: Media & Communication
Explore what it means to build, scale and sell a startup in NYC. Discover the latest trends in AI.
9:00 AM – Mentor Session
- Bryant Park
11:00 AM – Mentor Session
- Meta
3:00 PM – Group Activity
- Pace University
6:00 PM – Networking Event
- Pace University
Day 6: Product & Strategy
Talk to investors and VCs to learn what life in Venture Capital in NYC looks like, as well as the company they invest in.
9:00 AM – Mentor Session
- Acronym Venture Capital
11:00 AM – Mentor Session
- a16z
3:00 PM – Company Visit
- BlackRock
6:00 PM – Networking Panel
- WeWork
Day 7: Career Coaching & Closing
Get a sneak peak into the world of Real Estate before closing out the program with a group dinner.
9:00 AM – Mentor Session
- The Corcoran Group
11:00 AM – Mentor Session
- Hudson Yards
3:00 PM – Wrap-up Session
- Hudson Yards
6:00 PM – Closing Dinner
- Restaurant
Application Process
Our selective application process is built to recognize ambitious and talented individuals ready to make the most of the program.
Apply
Fill out the application form detailing your information, background and why you want to join.
Interview
Selected candidates will be invited to a 20-minute video interview with the founders.
Admission
Receive your acceptance and confirm your spot to secure your place in the cohort.
Preparation
Get access to pre-program materials and connect with your cohort before arrival in NYC.
Become a New York City insider in one week.
Upon admission, you will be able to choose one of the following packages depending on your needs and preferences.
Standard
- ✔ Mentor sessions and workshops
- ✔ Exclusive company visits
- ✔ Private networking events
- ✔ Business competition
- ✔ 1 meal per day*
- ✔ 7-day MetroCard pass
- ✔ Lifetime community access
- ✔ NYBF Merchandise
- ✔ Certificate of Completion
- ❌ Accommodation in Manhattan
Premium
- ✔ Everything included in Standard
-
PLUS
- ✅ ACCOMMODATION in Manhattan
(shared with other Fellows)
- ✅ Discount on our events worldwide
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
If accepted, a $300 down payment will be required to secure participation in the program.
Upgrading or downgrading package is possible until before the full payment of the program fee.
*The free meal per day will be offered only until Summer 2026.
Apply
Fill out the application form detailing your information, background and why you want to join.
Interview
Selected candidates will be invited to a 20-minute video interview with the founders.
Admission
Receive your acceptance and confirm your spot by completing the down payment.
Preparation
Get access to pre-program materials and connect with your cohort before arrival in NYC.
Become a New York City insider in one week.
End-of-year savings are here!
Apply now and secure your spot for our 2026 Cohorts to unlock discounted rates. Available until December 31, 2025.
Standard
- ✔ Mentor sessions and workshops
- ✔ Exclusive company visits
- ✔ Private networking events
- ✔ Business competition
- ✔ 1 meal per day
- ✔ 7-day MetroCard pass
- ✔ Lifetime community access
- ✔ NYBF Merchandise
- ✔ Certificate of Completion
- ❌ Accommodation in Manhattan
Premium
- ✔ Everything included in Standard
-
PLUS
- ✅ Accommodation in Manhattan
(shared with other Fellows)
- ✅ Discount on our events worldwide
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
If accepted, a $300 down payment will be required to secure participation in the program.
Upgrading or downgrading package is possible until before the full payment of the program fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
New York is a very competitive and selective city, and so are we with our Fellows. We evaluate applicants based on their professional and academic achievements, “can do” mindset, and potential to contribute to and benefit from the program. We aim to build diverse cohorts representing people from various backgrounds, industries, and nationalities.
Our workshops are interactive, hands-on sessions led by experts and designed to cultivate essential professional skills. They may vary from cohort to cohort, covering a wide range of topics (networking, public speaking, customer discovery, etc.) and industries to enhance your overall growth.
The Program was intentionally designed to run from Sunday to Saturday, making it possible for both students and professionals to participate without having to miss more than 5 days of school or work. Our goal is to create opportunities that are respectful of your existing commitments.
Yes. After acceptance, many participants explore external funding options, including:
• Crowdfunding platforms;
• University grants or stipends;
• Employer support or professional development budgets offered by some companies;
Additionally, you may apply for the Future Forward Fund by 521 Global, our private financial aid initiative. This may cover partial or full airfare, accommodation, or program fee costs. Awards are granted on both a need- and merit-based basis.
We encourage applicants to consider all or a mix of these avenues.
After all participants are selected, they’ll be invited to attend a pre-program webinar where a lot of preparation tips and information will be disclosed to help maximize the experience and arrive fully prepared!
No, having a business idea is not a requirement. The Fellowship welcomes entrepreneurs at various stages, professionals exploring innovation, and students seeking to expand their horizons. Many Fellows may use the program to refine existing ideas or find inspiration for new ventures through the connections they make.
Yes, the program fee includes one meal per day. The specific meal provided (e.g., breakfast, lunch, or dinner) will vary depending on the daily schedule and activities.
Absolutely! All Fellows gain lifelong access to our rich alumni network. This includes an online community platform, regular events, and ongoing connections to our mentors network, fostering enduring professional and personal relationships long after the program concludes.
Accommodation is provided ONLY with the Premium Package. It includes a room in Manhattan, which will be shared with 3 other Fellows. Specific details regarding the type of accommodation (e.g., hotel, hostel, dorm) will be provided upon acceptance into the program.
Yes, upon full attendance and active participation, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion, that you can showcase on your Social Media Profiles as well as your CV/Resume.
How NYBF Compares with Other Programs in the US
| What's included | NYBF | Silicon Valley | Boston | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 7 Days | 5 Days | 5 Days | 7 Days | |
| Lifetime Community Access | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | |
| Certificate of Completion | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | |
| Merchandise | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | |
| Accommodation | ✅ Shared | ❌ | ✅ Shared | ✅Shared | |
| FREE Transportation in the city | ✅ MetroCard | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | |
| Case competitions | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | |
| Meals Included | ✅ 1 per day | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | |
| Discounted Annual Retreats | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | |
| Program Price | $2,397 | $2,500 | $1,800 | $2,400 |