William Paterson University is one of the first universities in the State of New Jersey to launch the Global Entrepreneur in Residence Pilot Program to empower international entrepreneurs to develop or grow AI-driven and tech enterprises while contributing to the academic and community ecosystem.
This initiative allows selected international entrepreneurs, to qualify for the H-1B Visa*, access mentorship, resources, opportunities to build scalable businesses and to foster innovation and economic growth in New Jersey. This program is made possible with funding from the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education of the State of NJ.
We review applications on a rolling basis. Applications can be submitted at any time throughout the year. Read below information for our participation timeline.
Submission Requirements
Applications must be submitted 2 weeks before the pitch date, Friday, April 18, 2025 (See Pitch Competition Event)
Applications received after Friday, April 18, 2025, will be considered for the following year.
Friday, April 25, 2025
Following each pitch, allocate an additional 5 to 10 minutes for questions from judges or the audience to help deepen the understanding of the business model and to address any concerns.
1. Problem & Solution: Clearly define the problem and present a practical, innovative solution.
2. Market Potential: Understand the size and dynamics of the market and identify target customers.
3. Business Model: Outline a viable revenue model and demonstrate potential for scalability.
4. Traction & Validation: Show proof of concept through sales, partnerships, or user growth.
5. Team: Highlight the skills, experience, and drive of your team, including any strategic advisors.
6. Competitive Advantage: Detail what sets your business apart and your strategy for sustaining this edge.
7. Financials: Provide realistic financial projections and specify your funding needs.
8. Presentation Skills: Demonstrate clarity and persuasiveness in communication.
9. Exit Strategy: Explain your planned path to profitability or future sale/IPO.
10. Bonus: Demonstrate Economic Impact for New Jersey.
Friday, April 25, 2025
All semifinalists must be available to present their Pitch in person on Thursday, March 20, 2025. Each presenter will have only 3 minutes and should use 3 PowerPoint slides. PowerPoint slides should be submitted by Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 5:00 pm. File must be PowerPoint format.
Applicants selected to participate in the Pitch Competition should agree to the Image and Audio Release and Authorization Form
Tuesday, April 1, 2025
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Eligibility is primarily for international entrepreneurs enrolled or recently graduates of William Paterson University who have innovative business ideas and the potential to create jobs in New Jersey. Applicants must also qualify for an H-1B visa under U.S. immigration laws.
While we welcome applications from a wide range of sectors, preference is given to businesses that align with the economic development goals of New Jersey, such as Artificial Intelligence, technology, biotech, and sustainable energy.
Applicants should submit a detailed business plan, proof of business registration (if applicable), a pitch deck, financial projections, and any evidence of market traction like customer feedback or sales figures.
The review process typically takes 3-5 weeks. However, this can vary based on the volume of applications and the complexity of the business proposals received.
Participants are expected to commit to a 12-month program, actively engage in scheduled mentoring sessions, and participate in pitch contest and Demo Day event. Additionally, participants are required to work towards their business goals and report progress periodically.
There is no participation fee for the program. However, participants are responsible for their living and operational expenses while in New Jersey.
The program offers mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders, access to local networks and investors, assistance with business development, and legal advice regarding immigration and business operation in the U.S.
Yes, one of the key benefits of the NJ GEIR program is assistance with obtaining a cap-exempt H-1B visa, allowing international entrepreneurs to reside in the U.S. and operate their business.
Applicants not selected can reapply in subsequent years. We also provide feedback to all applicants to help them strengthen future applications.
For more information or assistance, applicants can contact our program office directly through email at wp-geir@wpunj.edu or visit our official website www.njgeir.org