Applications involve an online form detailing the business, team, market potential, and progress, followed by interviews or pitch sessions for selected candidates. The program runs 8-week cycles typically in the Spring and Fall. These cycles include weekly 3-hour sessions on Fridays with workshops, speaker series, and mentor office hours. Teams also gain access to resources like student product testers, campus space, and Columbia's media network. The program concludes with a Demo Day where startups pitch to investors. Almaworks also helps teams prepare for the $250,000 Columbia Venture Competition. Application deadlines for 2026 are typically in late January for the Spring cohort and early September for the Fall cohort.

Participants receive direct access to over 50 mentors from various fields. They also benefit from corporate partnerships, discounted legal services, and connections to VCs and investors for future fundraising. 

At least one founder must be a current Columbia student or a recent alumnus (within five years). Teams can have 1–6 founders. While often NYC-based, virtual options have been available. 

Participants receive direct access to over 50 mentors from various fields. They also benefit from corporate partnerships, discounted legal services, and connections to VCs and investors for future fundraising.