Two MFAD grads, Chiara Bajardi (MFA 2014) and Francisco Hernandez (MFA 2014) have been give scholarships to attend Google’s 30 Weeks, a program that transforms designers into founders who are equipped with the entrepreneurial skills, knowledge and tech know-how to create products and start impactful companies. “Our learn-by-launching structure gives designers a chance to build their products in an environment that’s as close to the real thing as possible,” says Shana Dressler, Program Director.

“We do this by integrating startup principles, practices and experience-based learning methodologies in a highly stimulating and collaborative learning environment. This happens as a result of a carefully-crafted curriculum covering product development, business models, legal structures, branding storytelling and marketing as well as ongoing interaction with some of the smartest minds in design, tech, business and venture capital in New York City.”

The program is operated by Hyper Island, and supported by Google in partnership with School of Visual Arts, Parsons, Pratt, The Cooper Union and the smartest minds in design, tech, business and venture capital. You can learn more about the program and who’s involved at www.30weeks.com