What is Tech Side Hustle?

Are you a student-driven tech-based startup? Do you have a desire to create a solution for a significant problem but may not know how to go about it?

​Tech Side Hustle is a new kind of program designed to help you go from idea to prototype in a problem space that excites you. We provide the coaching, funding and space for you to be creative and grow. We will help you unlock problems such as creating a value proposition, finding your first customer, prototyping a solution and more.

Invest in yourself and your idea

You

Beginner workshops, funding and certification opportunities to give you the framework for defining a market and developing a solution

Your Idea

Dedicated coaches and subject-matter experts to dig in to a problem space or idea that excites you​

Opportunity

​Complete the program with a minimum viable product or prototype to socialize and bring to market​
The Tech Side Hustle program has been a game-changer for both myself and my startup, Voteable. Our mission at Voteable is to be the leading source for local election information, news, and political insights. Thanks to the Tech Side Hustle program, we have not only gained a deeper understanding of our target audience, but we have also been equipped with the skills and knowledge to elevate Voteable through prototyping later this year.
​- Eric Elizes, Tech Side Hustle 2022
We accept six teams per cohort.
Acceptance is rolling until the deadline on September 17, 2023
 at midnight.
​
Applications require an articulation of the problem space or idea you want to focus on during the program.
Do I Qualify?
  • 3 months | approximately 5 hrs/wk
  • Individuals or teams are welcome
  • Limited to current undergrad or grad students
  • Participants receive up to $5,000 support​​​

2023 Program Details

Tech Side Hustle (TSH) is offered via a combination of virtual (80%) and in person (20%) events located across Northeast Ohio.

Dates

September 2023 - January 2024
(Exact dates to be determined based on participants' class schedule)

Criteria

Student teams/individuals have an idea or problem area identified and can commit 2-3 hours/week to the program.
Led by Entrepreneurs-in-Residence, Mike Belsito and John Knific, serial entrepreneurs and former student entrepreneurs.

EEC Institutions

Ashland University
The University of Akron
Baldwin Wallace University
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland State University
​Cuyahoga Community College
Hiram College
John Carroll University
Kent State University
Lake Erie College
Lorain County Community College
​The College of Wooster
​University of Mount Union

Questions?

Contact us here.