About this programme
MIT Sandbox is an entrepreneurship program that gives MIT student innovators seed funding, mentorship, and tailored entrepreneurship education. It is not a pitch competition; it is an educational initiative built to help students explore ideas and prepare for launch. Over its first 10 years, it has supported more than 8,000 student innovators, and the program cites $8.7 billion in global impact from teams that went on to raise money and build companies.
MIT Sandbox is based at iHQ (Building E38, 4th floor), 292 Main Street, Cambridge, MA.
How it works
Teams receive up to $25,000 in cumulative, non-dilutive funding, and keep their own IP rights.
New teams start in an Entry Phase with group mentoring on foundational entrepreneurship concepts, preliminary market research, and problem definition. Teams may then continue through multiple cohorts over 12 to 18 months in a Development Phase, where advanced teams get personalized mentorship from two experienced mentors.
Teams seeking $5,000 or more pitch to the MIT Sandbox Funding Board for feedback, advice, and a funding recommendation.
The program runs three application cycles a year (fall, spring, summer), with each cohort including 350+ active teams and 750+ individuals.
Who can apply
Open to MIT undergraduates, master's students, and PhD candidates, organized in teams that show commitment to their idea and a willingness to invest in initial research and planning.
How to apply
- Watch for the application window for the current cycle (for example, the Fall 2026 cohort opened September 4 and closed September 14).
- Attend an info session if offered (Fall 2026 sessions ran September 3 and 10, 4:00-5:00 PM).
- Submit an application for the Entry Phase.
- Once you need $5,000 or more, pitch to the MIT Sandbox Funding Board.
Frequently asked
Is MIT Sandbox a competition?
No, it is an educational and funding program, not a pitch competition.
How much funding can a team get?
Up to $25,000 in cumulative, non-dilutive funding per team; teams keep their own IP.
How often can I apply?
There are three application cycles a year: fall, spring, and summer.
Who is eligible?
MIT undergraduates, master's students, and PhD candidates, in teams that show commitment to their idea.
How do I get funding above the entry level?
Once your team needs $5,000 or more, you pitch to the MIT Sandbox Funding Board for feedback, advice, and a funding recommendation.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.