Through its HBS Foundry program, Harvard Business School is utilizing AI avatars created by HeyGen to provide real-time feedback on entrepreneurial pitches and board meetings.

  • HBS Foundry is an 8-week bootcamp priced at $699.
  • AI avatars created by HeyGen provide simulated feedback.
  • The technology assists in practicing pitches and board meetings.

In a significant move to scale its educational impact, Harvard Business School (HBS) has integrated sophisticated AI avatars into its 'Foundry' program. This initiative aims to provide entrepreneurs with intensive, personalized coaching through digital simulations.

The avatars, developed by the startup HeyGen, serve a specific role in the eight-week, $699 bootcamp. While the program maintains weekly live sessions with human instructors, the AI avatars take center stage during practice pitches and simulated board meetings, offering immediate, data-driven feedback to participants.

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The Reality of Digital Simulation

The nuances of this technology were highlighted by New York Times reporter Sarah Kessler. During a trial, she pitched a business concept to an AI-generated version of Jeff Bussgang, co-founder of Flybridge Capital. While the digital version was as unimpressed with her 'Uber for bananas' idea as the real Bussgang, Kessler noted a certain 'frozen smile' during the interaction, highlighting the current limitations of AI facial expressions.

The integration of digital twins in high-stakes training environments marks a paradigm shift in professional development.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that Harvard is strategically bridging the gap between elite, high-cost mentorship and scalable digital learning. By offering this at a $699 price point, HBS is expanding its ecosystem to a broader demographic of global entrepreneurs who require high-level feedback without the traditional Ivy League price tag.

Project director Katharina Rings noted that the program evolved based on student demand. Initially envisioned as a simple chatbot, the tool was upgraded to a more guided, avatar-led experience to meet the expectations of ambitious founders.

Historical Background

The evolution of business education has moved from traditional lecture halls to massive open online courses (MOOCs), and now toward immersive AI environments. Harvard's adoption of generative AI avatars represents the next frontier: moving from passive content consumption to active, simulated interaction.

Did You Know?: AI avatars are becoming so realistic that they can now mimic specific vocal tones and micro-expressions of real-world leaders.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does the HBS Foundry program cost?
The program is priced at $699 for an eight-week duration.

2. Are the AI avatars replacing human professors?
No, they are used as supplementary tools for practice and feedback, complementing live sessions with real instructors.