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e5 (Experiential-Five) Program
Also known as: e5, Kauffman Entrepreneurial Year, KEY
University of Rochester · Rochester, NY
Unique tuition-free fifth-year undergraduate fellowship for entrepreneurship. Formerly the Kauffman Entrepreneurial Year (KEY) program. Students launch startups, intern with cutting-edge companies, develop business plans, or explore entrepreneurship and innovation. Based on UR's definition: "transforming an idea into an enterprise that generates value."
Open to students in the College and Eastman School of Music. Can apply from acceptance into major through first semester of senior year.
Quick fit check
- Indirect support only
- No equity required
- Currently active
- Verified by research
Key numbers
Funding range
$0 – $0
Fellowship
Equity
None
Application
Semiannual
Campus Wide
Last activity
2026-06-23
High confidence
Application and Timing
Two cycles per year: fall (first Sunday in November) and spring (first Thursday after Spring Break). Requires course schedule, advisor, action plan, essay, resume, two recommendations.
Participants
Undergraduates in the College and Eastman School of Music.
Funding and Equity
Tuition-free fifth year. Students responsible for living expenses and startup costs. May be eligible for on-campus housing. No equity taken.
Recent Activity
- 2025-2026: Active program with updated website and continuous cohorts.
- Ongoing: Information sessions held prior to each deadline.
Known Startups or Winners
Alumni projects not publicly listed on program page.
Verification Gaps
- Number of e5 fellows per cohort.
- Specific ventures launched through the program.
- Historical alumni outcomes.
e5 (Experiential-Five) Program
Additional research notesShow
News & articles
News articles and official sources documenting e5 (Experiential-Five) Program at University of Rochester.
1 source
Ain Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation Official Pages
University of Rochester
University of Rochester
Ain Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation Official Pages
Five captures: Ain Center home page, Forbes Competition page (2026 winners, prizes, schedule), Mark Ain Competition page ($13.5K, 2025 winners, revenue restriction), e5 Program page (tuition-free fifth year), and Ain Center student incubator at NextCorps.
Read on University of Rochester