Local Business

Registration is now open!

Apply by July 1, 2025 to be considered.

About WISE Academy

WISE Academy is a dynamic accelerator designed to equip entrepreneurs and corporate professionals with essential skills, tools, and mindset to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape. Led by renowned entrepreneur and educator Terry Hsiao, this 8-session program offers hands-on learning, mentorship, and a vibrant community.

Session Date Overview Core Topics
1
July 10
Introduction and Course Overview
Intrepreneur vs. Entrepreneur, GOAT Mountain, What’s Special about Silicon Valley, Grit and Growth Mindset, Desert Simulation Exercise
2
July 24
How to Qualify Your Ideas
What Business Are You In, Value Proposition, Sustainable Differentiations, Designed for Whom? Identify and Develop Customers/Users, Customer Persona
3
August 7
MVP and Lean Methodology
MVP, Design Thinking, and Lean Startup Methodology
4
August 21
Disruptive Innovation
Disruptive Innovation, Crossing the Chasm, Business Model Canvas
5
September 4
GTM Strategy
GTM Strategy, Competitive Analysis, and Pricing
6
September 18
Pitching & Funding
Venture Ready Scorecard, Fundable vs. Bankable, Valuation, Storytelling, Pitch Deck
7
October 2
Strategic Landscape
Social Impacts, Ethics, Intellectual Property, Cross-Border Community, Human Nature/Incentives, Team Culture
8
October 16
Pivoting and Review
Review and Exam, Guest Speakers, Pivot

Upon successful completion of WISE Academy, participants will be expected to:

  1. learn the necessary skills in creating and evaluating an innovation idea;
  2. share common language and understanding of basic startup concepts and methodologies;
  3. stimulate creativity and develop plans and for a team toward an innovation end-state;
  4. evaluate decision-making process for the innovation creation and deployment;
  5. create a business model that fits the innovation and understand fundraising process;
  6. learn the various approaches and techniques to communicate (socialize) the innovation;
  7. follow ethics and community principles while avoiding pitfalls in the entrepreneurial journey.

Empower Your Entrepreneurial Journey with WISE Academy

You should apply if you’re an:

Aspiring entrepreneur with a business idea ready to launch

Early-stage startup founder seeking to validate and scale

Established business owner looking to innovate and grow

Corporate professional aiming to develop an entrepreneurial mindset

All are welcome to apply!

Applications are due by July 1st, 2025!
Regular Fee $900
Early-Bird Rate (ends 6/1) $750 $900
USPAACC-Member/CelebrASIAN Rate $750 $900
For those who attended CelebrASIAN 2025 or are USPAACC members
Scholarship Rate $450 $900
Please apply for the scholarship during your application process!
Who can apply?

Anyone and everyone! WISE Academy is open to all.

Will sessions be recorded?

Yes, all recordings and course materials will be available for registered participants.

What are graduation requirements?

Attend 4+ sessions, demonstrate mastery of the content, and complete a final project.

Is an NDA or Confidentiality Agreement required?

Yes, all participants will be required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to protect shared business ideas and ensure a safe, confidential environment.

How soon will I have a decision on my application?

Applications will be reviewed as received with a decision expected by July 1st.

Ready to level up?

Register for WISE Academy today!