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MIT Bootcamps
MIT Bootcamps: SUD Ventures
(Dates + times above are subject to change and will be updated as information becomes available)
Do you have a research-based idea, technology, prevention approach, recovery support innovation, data tool, or policy-relevant solution that could help address challenges related to substance use disorders? Would you like to learn what it takes to move that idea toward commercialization, implementation, and broader impact?
MIT SUD Ventures is an intense, immersive hybrid program with a mission to spark scalable ventures that address substance-use disorders across prevention, long-term recovery, and data-driven policy.
The program includes asynchronous learning, eight live online sessions during Fall 2026, and a five-day in-person Bootcamp at MIT from January 11–15, 2027. Participants learn how to identify high-impact opportunities, build scalable ventures, and pursue commercialization pathways for substance use disorder technologies and solutions.
Participants receive guidance from entrepreneurs, investors, industry experts, MIT instructors, and leaders working in the SUD field. The program culminates in a final pitch to a panel of judges, with guidance on follow-on funding opportunities including Small Business Innovation Research grants.
Who is eligible to participate?
The program is a strong fit for scientists, entrepreneurs, medical professionals, and public policy experts conducting research or developing innovations in the SUD-related space who want to learn the craft of technology commercialization. We are especially interested in academics who are frustrated with promising inventions sitting on the shelf and are ready to move them toward real-world impact, and entrepreneurs with an existing startup whose product has the potential to pivot into or expand within the SUD space.
Why choose MIT SUD Ventures?
MIT SUD Ventures offers a hands-on, venture-building experience grounded in MIT’s innovation ecosystem. Participants work with a curated cohort of SUD researchers and innovators, receive mentorship from experts across entrepreneurship, health, industry, and investment, and build a practical path for advancing their idea. Upon successful completion, participants receive a certificate from MIT Bootcamps and join the MIT SUD Ventures graduate network.
How much does it cost?
MIT SUD Ventures will award 15 fully funded fellowships to outstanding U.S.-based biomedical and behavioral researchers and experienced medical professionals working in SUD. These fellowships, financially provided by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, cover tuition, travel, and accommodations.
Where can I apply?
Admissions open on July 15, 2026, and are reviewed on a rolling basis. The first stage includes submitting a resume and completing a short video interview in which applicants record answers to a set of questions. If selected to move forward, applicants will be invited to a live video interview with the MIT SUD Ventures team and program graduates.
When will I find out if I am accepted?
Apply before August 15, 2026 → Decision by September 1, 2026
Apply by September 8, 2026 → Decision by October 1, 2026
Because applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and the cohort is small, applicants are encouraged to apply early.
What are the program expectations?
Participants should expect to engage in online learning and live online sessions during Fall 2026, followed by the five-day in-person Bootcamp at MIT in Cambridge, Massachusetts, from January 11–15, 2027. The in-person experience includes workshops, expert sessions, venture development, mentoring, team work, and a final pitch.