New York City

Program Cost & Financial Aid

Program Tuition

Hudson Lab Ventures is a two-week, in-person innovation program where high school students work on real challenges with global companies and institutions. Tuition reflects the full experience: expert facilitation, close supervision, and access to New York City’s innovation ecosystem.

  • NYC Commuter Program: $3500

  • NYC Residential Program: $6500

We intentionally keep cohorts small to ensure meaningful mentorship, feedback, and supervision. Program dates, daily hours, and cohort size are listed on the NYC program page.

What’s Included

Tuition covers all core program components required for a high-quality, well-supported experience.

  • Daily facilitation by Hudson Lab Ventures staff

  • Program design, curriculum, and materials

  • Guest speakers, mentors, and site visits

  • Structured teamwork, coaching, and feedback

  • Final presentations to an authentic audience

  • Supervision during all program hours

Residential Program Only

  • Supervised student housing

  • Daily check-ins and clear routines

  • Staff oversight outside program hours

What’s Not Included

  • Travel to and from New York City

  • Daily meals (unless otherwise noted)

  • Personal spending money

  • Travel or medical insurance

  • Lost or stolen Columbia University student ID cards may be replaced for $20

NYC Residential Program

Move-in: July 12
Program: July 13-24
Move-out: July 25

The Residential Program is designed for students traveling to New York City from outside the region and offers a rare opportunity to live on a university campus in New York City.

Residential students live together on Columbia University’s campus, creating a close-knit community with other Hudson Lab Ventures students. Days are spent immersed in the innovation program, while evenings offer time to relax, explore, and enjoy New York City in a way that feels both exciting and safe.

The Columbia campus is highly secured so students can safely relax around campus, spend time together, and experience a sense of independence — with structure and supervision always in place. Evenings vary between group dinners, supervised outings around New York City or staying in watching a movie in the residence hall lounge.

Supervision & Student Support

Student safety and wellbeing are central to program design. Students follow a clear daily rhythm that balances focused work time, collaboration, and supervised movement throughout the city.

  • Hudson Lab Ventures staff are present daily during all program hours

  • Students know exactly who to go to with questions or concerns

  • Clear expectations are established for participation, behavior, and communication

  • Hudson Lab Ventures staff actively monitor social dynamics, engagement, and wellbeing

Students are supported academically, socially, and emotionally as they navigate new challenges and responsibilities.

Is This Program a Good Fit?

Students do not need prior business experience. They do need a willingness to participate, collaborate, and explain their thinking.

Hudson Lab Ventures is a strong fit for students who want to:

  • Think independently and take responsibility for their work

  • Build confidence communicating with peers and adults

  • Understand how ideas move from concept to action in the real world

This program may not be the best fit for students looking for:

  • A traditional classroom or lecture-based experience

  • Guaranteed outcomes or competitive rankings

  • A purely recreational or tourism-focused program

Financial Aid

Hudson Lab Ventures offers limited need-based financial aid to ensure that motivated students can participate regardless of financial background.

  • Aid is awarded based on demonstrated need

  • Applications are reviewed holistically

  • Requests are kept confidential

Families interested in financial aid are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited.

Planning Ahead

We understand that summer plans can change.

Families receive detailed pre-program information, clear policies, and ongoing communication before the program begins. Our team is available to answer questions throughout the decision-making process.

For specific enrollment and refund policies, please refer to our policies page or contact us directly.

Questions?

If you’re unsure whether Hudson Lab Ventures is the right fit, we encourage families to:

We’re happy to help you decide whether this experience aligns with your goals.