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Silicon Valley Technology New Venture
Dual Certificate: Industry + University
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 Chartmetric, a Leading AI-Powered Data Analytics Platform
The Silicon Valley Tech New Venture program is an 8-week immersive dual certificate created by the University of San Francisco Data Institute in collaboration 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 turn data into impact. In collaboration with Chartmetric, you’ll learn using real-world datasets from the music industry—while developing AI and analytics skills that apply across any sector. This is not just a certificate—it’s 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
Application Deadlines
Early Bird (Save $300): April 30, 2026
Final Deadline: May 31, 2026
Format
Weeks 1–7: Online (live, interactive) Thursday–Saturday, typically 9:00–11:00 AM (PT)
Week 8: In-person final competition at the University of San Francisco
Program Dates: June 11 – August 7, 2026
Online: June 11 – August 1
In-person competition: August 6–7
Tuition
USF Students: $2,500
Early Bird: $2,800
Regular: $3,100
Prerequisites
No prior startup experience required. Open to all backgrounds.
Who Should Apply
Undergraduate and graduate students (U.S. and international)
Aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators
Interests in music, business, data, AI, or technology
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
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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.
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Location: Lone Mountain North
Traditional residence hall with community bathroomsRates
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
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- $5,000 Grand Prize
- $3,000 Second Prize
- $1,000 Third Prize
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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.
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- 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
San Francisco, CA 94105
Hours
Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.