The Dyson School is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the Cane Entrepreneurial Scholars (CES) Program.
Funded through a generous gift from Dan Cane ’98, founder of Blackboard and Modernizing Medicine, the CES Program supports the development of young Cornell entrepreneurs through financial assistance, mentorship, and experiential learning as they explore an entrepreneurial path. The program is designed to reduce financial barriers so Scholars can focus their time and energy on taking the necessary steps to move their ventures forward.
Award Details
Scholars may receive up to $6,000 per year, depending on the application. Funding can be used at the Scholar’s discretion to advance their business. The program also aims to provide mentorship and guidance on leveraging this support to secure additional financial or in-kind resources.
Eligibility & Preference
Preference is given to proposals with a strong social impact and to Dyson students pursuing the Entrepreneurship concentration.
Please note: the award is available to undergraduate students only. May 2026 graduates are not eligible to apply.
Expectations
Scholars must submit quarterly progress updates and commit to spending at least 90% of their summer working on their startups.
Questions?
For questions about program requirements, contact:
Professor Matt Marx, Bruce F. Failing, Sr. Chair in Entrepreneurship and Professor of Management & Organizations; Faculty Director of Entrepreneurship at Cornell
mmarx@cornell.edu
For logistical questions, contact:
Erik Lucas, Dyson Student Services
el442@cornell.edu
Application Deadline: February 20, 2026