Build the Future with Nova Via
Nova Via’s Summer Accelerator is designed for ambitious high school innovators ready to go beyond the classroom. Over 12 intensive days, students join a global cohort and expert mentors to tackle real-world challenges across cutting-edge fields like robotics, biotech, sustainable design and more.
Choose a program track that aligns with your interests and potential future college major. (2026 program options to be confirmed – contact us for more information).
July – August 2026 (dates TBC)
12 Days residential program
Shanghai (exact location TBC)
Choose Your Track
Core Modules
Core content aligned to the industry tracks and lays both theoretical foundations and hands on experience (including laboratory sessions where applicable) to enable students to complete their capstone project of choice.
Capstone Projects
Tackle real-world challenges and develop disruptive solutions at the intersection of technology and entrepreneurship, from sustainable robotics gear to next-gen pharmaceuticals
Industry Access
Access unique resources to complete your projects from fabrication facilities to cutting edge biotech labs.
Gain exclusive access to industry leaders through talks and workshops, and explore cutting-edge advancements shaping the future.
Experience a fast-paced, immersive journey where each day blends learning, innovation, and discovery.
Program Structure
hours of immersive learning across core curriculum, industry engagements, expert-led workshops, and guest speaker sessions
90+
mentor to student ratio, ensuring personalized support and a collaborative learning environment
1:5
Sample Schedule
Overview
In an era of logistics disruption and human–robot collaboration, quadruped robots are transforming industries – from warehouse automation to disaster response. Nova Via’s IRA track invites students to design intelligent, purpose-driven accessories that extend the capabilities of these robotic “workhorses.”
Mentored by veteran industrial designers, serial entrepreneur and Stanford MBA, students dive into a full-cycle product sprint – analyzing Unitree robot specs, designing accessory concepts, prototyping MVPs, and pitching their solution in a Silicon Valley–style Demo Day.
Sample Track – DER (Design-Engineering-Robotics) X Startup Accelerator
Industrial Design
Mechanical Engineering
STEM
Technology & Innovation
Robotics
Business Innovation
What You’ll Learn
Industrial Design
Scenario-driven design (real use cases e.g. logistics, exploration, etc.)
Sustainable materials and functional design
Prototyping and Minimum Viable Product (MVP) development (access to fablab CAD technicians, and other resources)
Refinement workshops for iterative testing and improvement (access specialized specialized mentor support and resources)
Outcomes
Design and build a unique product from blank canvas, with experience in full development cycle from concept to MVP and commercialization
Demonstrate interdisciplinary excellence across industrial design, sustainability, and entrepreneurship
Demonstrate advance hands on design and fabrication skills
World class mentors and industry guest speakers
Robyn
Co-Founder - Nova Via, ex-COO at AKKA Stanford (MBA / MA), LSE (MSc)
Rachel
Co-Founder - Kiwee, ex-Industrial Designer at Frog
UST Beijing
Young
AI and digital transformation (top global luxury brand)
NTU (BS), U. Maryland (MS)
Di
Head of Legal - Shanghai, Top five global tech company Stanford Law School
Xueying
Int. Therapy Marketing Lead - Medtronic Tsinghua University, INSEAD
Rex
Senior Finance Director - Nike SUFE, University of Melbourne
Other Mentors & Speakers
Mentors and guest speakers are track specific industry specialists
Coming Soon
Are you ready to take the first step? We are seeking ambitious high school students (aged 15 – 18) who are ready to think big and make an impact.
Application Process
Scan QR code or click link below for 2026 program details and application link
(2026 program link coming soon)
Aligned with college programs such as:
UC Berkeley’s Management, Entrepreneurship, & Technology (MET)
Northwestern’s Manufacturing & Design Engineering (MaDE)
Brown | RISD Dual Degree, and more
ANY business program
Hosted at world class facilities in Shanghai
Business Innovation
Innovative thinking and problem-solving (spot unmet needs and design user- first solutions).
Master the Business Model Canvas (BMC) to map out your startup’s strategy (from operations to financials, value propositions, and more).
Explore the intersection of the circular economy, ESG criteria, and UN SDG9, 12, 13 (sustainability and market viability) .
Marketing and brand identity (understand your customers, how to create a memorable brand identity, and master how to market anything / anyone).
Startup financials to budget your startup and Silicon Valley funding strategies.
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