A Mentor Network Built to Support Innovation
UCR’s Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIRs) and mentors help founders navigate the real challenges of building and growing a company. Through one-on-one advising and targeted support, they bring experience in startup growth, fundraising, commercialization, and business development.
Our mentor network includes experienced entrepreneurs, operators, investors, and industry leaders who have founded startups, scaled ventures, and led companies through critical stages of growth.
What Is an Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR)?
An Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) is a seasoned founder, executive, or subject matter expert who works alongside emerging companies to provide mentorship, perspective, and strategic support.
At UCR, EIRs work with founders based on the specific stage, industry, and needs of each company.
From early ideas to investment-ready ventures, UCR’s EIRs support entrepreneurs across all four stages of growth - concept, validation, incubation, and scale-up.
Support Through Every Step of the Way
EPIC mentors support founders through a four-stage pathway designed to help innovators progress from early exploration to commercialization and growth. Depending on your stage, you may access educational programs, one-on-one mentorship, proof-of-concept support, incubation resources, funding guidance, pilot opportunities, and strategic growth connections.
How Mentorship Works
Through UCR’s EPIC entrepreneurial support program (Entrepreneurial Proof-of-Concept and Innovation Center), founders can access one-on-one mentorship and targeted support aligned with their business goals. Learn more about our EPIC Program by clicking here.
Support may include:
- One-on-one mentoring sessions
- Business model and growth strategy
- Customer discovery and market validation
- Pitch coaching and investor readiness
- Business development and partnerships
- Workshops, office hours, and program-based support
Areas of Expertise
UCR’s Entrepreneurs-in-Residence and mentors offer guidance across the key challenges founders face as they build, grow, and prepare to scale.
Areas of expertise include:
- Startup formation and early-stage growth
- Go-to-market strategy and product-market fit
- Fundraising and investor readiness
- Business development and strategic partnerships
- Operations, scaling, and leadership
- Commercialization and innovation strategy
Meet the Mentors Behind UCR’s Innovation Ecosystem
Our Entrepreneurs-in-Residence and mentors bring more than credentials - they bring pattern recognition, hard-earned perspective, and a willingness to help founders navigate uncertainty with greater clarity and confidence.
Ready to Connect with a Mentor?
Whether you’re refining an idea, preparing to grow, or navigating your next big decision, UCR’s mentor network is here to help. Apply for EPIC and get matched with an Entrepreneur-in-Residence and advisor who can support your next stage of growth.
Your Entrepreneur-in-Residence Liaison
Martin Kleckner
Director, EPIC SBDC
Entrepreneurship & Innovation
Martin Kleckner brings 28 years of experience in operations and business development across life sciences, healthcare, oil & gas, and cable TV. He has advised 115+ companies on strategy, commercialization, and public policy worldwide. As a founder or early-stage employee in five startups, he achieved two successful exits.