Registration is now closed!
Follow our LinkedIn page to stay up to date on WISE Academy and future cohorts!
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.
Comprehensive Curriculum
8 sessions covering ideation, MVPs, business models, go-to-market, and funding.
Practical Skills
Learn tools & strategies to launch, grow, and innovate your venture.
Expert Instruction
Led by entrepreneur, investor, and educator Terry Hsiao.
Community & Networking
Join a supportive network of peers and mentors.
Flexible Format
1.5-hour virtual sessions, with in-person opportunities.
Certification
Get certified by USPAACC WISE after completing the program.
| 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:
- learn the necessary skills in creating and evaluating an innovation idea;
- share common language and understanding of basic startup concepts and methodologies;
- stimulate creativity and develop plans and for a team toward an innovation end-state;
- evaluate decision-making process for the innovation creation and deployment;
- create a business model that fits the innovation and understand fundraising process;
- learn the various approaches and techniques to communicate (socialize) the innovation;
- follow ethics and community principles while avoiding pitfalls in the entrepreneurial journey.
Terry Hsiao
WISE Academy Instructor
Terry Hsiao is a seasoned entrepreneur, venture capital investor and advisor with over two decades of experience launching and scaling technology companies. He is the founder of multiple successful startups, including one IPO on NYSE. Terry brings deep expertise in innovation, strategy, and fundraising. Terry currently teaches New Venture Financing and Entrepreneurship at George Washington University.
Sabrina Alexis Sayoc
WISE Academy Program Manager
Sabrina Alexis Sayoc is a strategic innovator and community builder committed to equity, access, and impact. With a background as an award-winning staffing professional and a current focus on AI strategy and enablement, she blends people-centered thinking with creative problem-solving. A proud first-gen Philippine American and underrepresented professional, Sabrina brings contagious energy, a sharp business mind, and deep empathy to every space she’s in.
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!
- 8 virtual sessions | 1.5 hours each
- Bi-weekly Thursday evenings | 8:00 - 9:30PM ET
- Dates: July 10, July 24, August 7, August 21, September 4, September 25, October 2, October 16
- OPTIONAL In-Person Opportunity: October 2025 in San Francisco, CA
- In-Person Graduation Celebration | New York, NY | December 10
Anyone and everyone! WISE Academy is open to all.
Yes, all recordings and course materials will be available for registered participants.
Attend 4+ sessions, demonstrate mastery of the content, and complete a final project.
Yes, all participants will be required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to protect shared business ideas and ensure a safe, confidential environment.
Applications will be reviewed as received with a decision expected by July 1st.
Thank you to our generous sponsors!
Empowerment Sponsors:
Visionary Sponsor:
