two students and prof. brooks in the computer lab

Silicon Valley Technology New Venture

Introductory Certificate

Designed for ambitious undergraduate and graduate students, this program equips you to build and pitch a real AI-powered venture using applied data analytics.

Partner With a Leading AI-Powered Data Analytics Platform

The AI-Powered Data Analytics New Venture Creation is an 8-week immersive certificate program created by the University of San Francisco Data Institute in partnership with Chartmetric, a leading AI-powered data analytics platform trusted across the global music and entertainment industry.

AI is transforming every industry. The real question is how we will use it to build the future. This is not just a certificate; it is a launchpad.

Designed With You in Mind

You leave with a portfolio-ready startup project, executive pitch experience, and industry-recognized credentials.

  • Real Venture Creation
    Build a startup concept from idea to prototype — not just a classroom exercise.
  • AI + Data + Market Strategy
    Learn how AI-powered analytics creates competitive advantage across industries.
  • Silicon Valley & San Francisco Immersion
    Experience the innovation mindset that defines San Francisco and the Bay Area ecosystem.
  • High-Impact Innovation Challenge
    Compete live at USF Data Institute.

Course Information

Format:
Weeks 1–7: Online (Live + Interactive)
Week 8: In-Person Final Competition at the University of San Francisco

Program Dates: 
Weeks 1–7: Online (Live + Interactive): June 11 - August 1, 2026
Week 8: In-Person Final Competition: August 6–7, 2026

Cost: 
USF Current Students: $2,500
Early Bird (through April 30): $2,800
Regular (May 1- May 31):  $3,100

Prerequisites: No prior startup experience required. Both technical and non-technical students are welcome.

Who Should Apply: Undergraduate and graduate students, domestic and international participants, aspiring music entrepreneurs, founders and innovators, and students in business, data science, computer science, engineering, marketing, music or related fields.

Students chatting in USF law building

Develop a Business Plan Using AI and Data Analytics

Over 8 weeks, you will:

  • Learn applied AI and data analytics
  • Identify real market opportunities
  • Form cross-functional startup teams
  • Develop and prototype an AI-powered venture
  • Receive coaching from faculty and industry leaders
  • Submit a preliminary venture idea
  • Deliver a formal business plan proposal
  • Pitch live in San Francisco at the final innovation challenge
  • Compete for $9,000 in cash prizes

Program Details

  • We are proud to partner with Chartmetric, a Silicon Valley-based AI data analytics company serving artists, labels, and industry leaders worldwide.

    Through this collaboration, students will:

    • Access Chartmetric’s professional data platform
    • Learn how AI-powered analytics drives decision-making at scale
    • Earn a Music Data Analytics & AI Certification from Chartmetric
    • Receive a Silicon Valley Technology New Venture certificate from USF
    • Gain exposure to how real AI companies operate

    This partnership brings direct industry relevance into the classroom.

  • Location: Lone Mountain North
    Traditional residence hall with community bathrooms

    Rates

    3 Night Stay

    • Single Occupancy: $89 per night
    • Double Occupancy: $130 per night
      ($65 per person, per night)

    1–2 Night Stay

    • Single Occupancy: $102 per night
    • Double Occupancy: $150 per night
      ($75 per person, per night)

    What’s Included

    Temporary campus housing includes: blanket, pillow and pillowcase, bedspread, sheets, one small towel

    • $5,000 Grand Prize
    • $3,000 Second Prize
    • $1,000 Third Prize
  • Registration is individual.

    You may:

    • Apply independently (we match you to a team), or
    • Apply with a pre-formed team (3–5 students)

    Strong teams combine technical, business, and domain expertise.

    • Week 4: Preliminary Venture Idea
    • Week 6: Venture Business Plan Proposal
    • Week 8: Live Final Pitch Competition

Professional Certificates at the Data Institute

Proven Expertise
Since 2016, the Data Institute at the University of San Francisco has been a leader in delivering top-tier professional certificate programs. Backed by renowned faculty and industry experts, our programs are designed to empower professionals with the knowledge and skills to excel in their fields.

Cutting-Edge Curriculum
Stay ahead of industry trends with courses that focus on the most sought-after topics, including AI, data science, and graph neural networks. Our curriculum is continuously updated to reflect the latest advancements and best practices.

Hands-On Learning
Master practical skills by working on real-world projects, engaging in interactive instruction, and using state-of-the-art tools and techniques trusted by leading professionals.

Data Institute

101 Howard St. Suite 500
San Francisco, CA 94105
Hours

Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.