Cover Image for Visas for Founders, Researchers & Academic Entrepreneurs
Cover Image for Visas for Founders, Researchers & Academic Entrepreneurs
Avatar for CMU Startup Week
Presented by
CMU Startup Week

Visas for Founders, Researchers & Academic Entrepreneurs

Registration
Approval Required
Your registration is subject to approval by the host.
Welcome! To join the event, please register below.
About Event

Turning research into a startup? Building a venture from the lab or classroom?

Join a talk by Sophie Alcorn for a practical session on U.S. visa options for innovators with academic roots and entrepreneurial goals. We'll cover:

  • O-1 for extraordinary talent

  • EB-2 NIW for mission-driven founders

  • Cap-exempt H-1Bs for university-linked ventures

  • Self-petition strategies for startup leaders

Perfect for PhDs, postdocs, faculty, and research-driven founders.
Get the tools to launch—and stay.

When: September 24, 2025

Where: NSH 3305, 12:15 - 1:15 pm ET

Speaker Bio:

Sophie Alcorn is a leading immigration attorney and the founder of Alcorn Immigration Law in Silicon Valley. With a focus on helping tech startups and international talent, she specializes in guiding clients through the complexities of U.S. immigration law to obtain visas and green cards.

Sophie is a Certified Specialist in Immigration and Nationality Law and has been a regular contributor to TechCrunch’s "Ask Sophie" column, where she shared valuable insights on immigration issues. She is also the host of "The Sophie Alcorn Podcast", providing essential information for entrepreneurs navigating immigration challenges.

With a commitment to empowering individuals and families, Sophie actively participates in mentoring and advocacy, ensuring that her clients can achieve their dreams in the U.S.

Location
Newell-Simon Hall
Hamerschlag Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
Avatar for CMU Startup Week
Presented by
CMU Startup Week