Harvard Alumni Entrepreneurs
Selects participating ventures.
Harvard Alumni Entrepreneurs and CosailPartners
Strategic
Advisory Network
Real boards. Practical experience. Lasting value.
The Strategic Advisory Network (SAN) is a six-month training program that connects experienced executives, entrepreneurs and senior professionals with selected ventures founded by Harvard alumni. For the first time, participants admitted to the program can gain practical advisory board experience while helping founders make better strategic decisions.
Advisor journey supported by Global Boards Alumni.
The Partnership
CosailPartners
Develops the program methodology.
Global Boards Alumni
Supports advisors and their preparation.
Read the official announcement ↗
Are you a Harvard-affiliated founder? Explore SAN at HAE ↗
Who You’ll Advise
Selected ventures founded by Harvard alumni.
Real strategic decisions.
SAN advisors work with ventures from the Harvard Alumni Entrepreneurs community. These companies span industries and stages, and all want experienced advisors on consequential decisions.
Strategic priorities may include:
- Growth & Market Expansion
- Business Models & Competitive Positioning
- Financial Planning & Investment Readiness
- Governance & Risk
- Partnerships & Major Decisions
Advisors are matched on expertise, complementary perspectives and each venture’s priorities.
Your Advisory Journey
GlobalBoardsAlumni Advisor platform for SAN
Global Boards Alumni helps experienced executives translate their expertise into advisory board contribution.
Preparation
Build foundations in governance, strategic judgment, board dynamics and constructive challenge before your first meeting.
Real Practice
Join a small advisory board working with a selected venture founded by Harvard alumni on real business challenges.
Professional Facilitation
Take part in structured board meetings guided by a professional facilitator who keeps discussion disciplined.
Continuous Feedback
Receive structured 360° feedback after each board meeting to reflect, improve and build observable board behaviours.
The Six-Month
SAN Journey
MONTH 1
Advisor Foundations
Three online foundation sessions cover advisory governance, strategic judgment and board effectiveness, followed by advisor matching and onboarding.
MONTHS 2–6
Five Online Advisory Meetings
Each board includes 3 Advisors + 1 Professional Facilitator + 1–2 Founders, meeting online once a month.
- Mandate & Strategic Priorities
- Business Model, Finance & Risk
- Growth, Customers & Capability
- Major Decisions & Investment Readiness
- Future Strategy & Continuation
Meeting topics adapt to each venture’s priorities.
Prepare · Meet · Document · ReflectEvery meeting is followed by 360° feedback.
What You’ll
Take Away
Practical Board Experience
Five real advisory board meetings build concrete board experience.
Board-Ready Skills
Ask productive questions and challenge constructively without executive authority.
Evidence of Board Contribution
Build real examples of advisory work to inform future board conversations.
Certificate of Completion
A certificate jointly issued by Harvard Alumni Entrepreneurs and Global Boards Alumni, for meeting attendance, participation and feedback requirements.
12 Months of GBA Membership
Continued access to member content, events and professional connections.
Relationships That Can Continue
Advisors and founders may agree to continue working together after SAN.
SAN does not guarantee future board appointments, investment opportunities or fundraising outcomes.
Who Should
Apply?
Experienced professionals ready to contribute — and learn.
Eligibility
- Senior leadership, entrepreneurial or investment experience
- Membership of a relevant alumni or professional network
- Harvard alumni status not required
Commitment
- Time to complete training and the six-month engagement
- Openness to feedback and learning
- No previous board experience required
How to Join SAN
Apply
Complete the advisor application form with your background and motivation.
Admissions Review
Applications are reviewed against program criteria and availability.
Acceptance & Enrollment
Selected candidates receive next steps to confirm participation.
Matching & Preparation
Advisors are matched to a suitable venture and prepare.
Selection and matching are subject to availability and fit.
Frequently Asked
Questions
Do I need to be a Harvard alumnus to participate as an advisor?
No. SAN welcomes qualified advisors from Global Boards Alumni and other relevant networks.
Do I need previous advisory board experience?
No. SAN develops advisory board capabilities, whether or not you have served on a board.
Is SAN fully online?
Yes. Training sessions and advisory board meetings are held online.
How much time does the program require?
About 18–20 hours of scheduled online sessions over six months, plus preparation.
Is SAN the same as joining a Board of Directors?
No. SAN is a non-statutory advisory role, not a statutory board appointment.
What happens after the six months?
Participants complete a final review. Advisors and founders may independently choose to continue working together.
YOUR NEXT CHAPTER
Your Next Board Experience
Starts Here.
Put your experience to work alongside selected ventures founded by Harvard alumni.
Harvard Alumni Entrepreneurs and CosailPartners.
Advisor journey supported by Global Boards Alumni.