The baseline requirements for candidates are a desire to be fully committed to a start-up venture in the consumer electronics technology space. Candidates are evaluated in the following areas:
• Entrepreneurship: Demonstration of entrepreneurial experience and aptitude is a must for potential Entrepreneurs-in-Residence.
• Technology: Skill and experience in a technical field relevant to consumer electronics is an asset to all Entrepreneurs, and a requirement for technical candidates.
• Attitude: The start-up process requires individuals who are highly self-motivated, are able to deal with ambiguity, are willing to champion their ideas, are persistent, and are flexible/creative problem solvers.
• Leadership: We are looking for candidates who will be able to chart a path for new ventures and build high performing teams committed to each venture’s vision. Strong communication skills, a strong sense of ethics and integrity, and the ability to work effectively with others both inside and outside the organization are essential.

During the first month of the program, candidates go through a qualification process where they have access to mentorship, office infrastructure, and expert network to develop initial business and validation plans.
Once successfully qualified, Entrepreneurs-in-Residence receive a $50k budget to facilitate the validation and planning activities needed to meet TandemLaunch’s investment criteria. This budget allows for the use of appropriate staff resources (e.g. engineering staff to build an early demo of the technology, consulting services for technology review from a member of our Technology Advisory Board), any incidentals associated with the Creation Phase (e.g. a visit by the inventor to TandemLaunch, industry engagements, etc.), and a basic $2K/month stipend for the Entrepreneur-in-Residence. On advancement to the Incubation Stage, regular start-up salaries and equity considerations apply.