Harvard uses AI avatars to provide feedback in entrepreneurship bootcamp

Harvard Business School is incorporating AI avatars to offer personalized feedback to participants in its HBS Foundry bootcamp. The eight-week program, priced at $699, includes AI-generated versions of instructors created by the startup HeyGen. These avatars provide feedback during practice pitches and board meetings, while live sessions with real instructors occur weekly. New York Times reporter Sarah Kessler tested the system by pitching to an AI version of Flybridge Capital co-founder Jeff Bussgang. Both the real Bussgang and his digital counterpart were unimpressed with her plan for an 'Uber for bananas,' though the AI version had a noticeably frozen smile during the pitch. Katharina Rings, the project director, initially envisioned the AI component as a chatbot, but students requested a more interactive experience after a trial version was released. Despite some students expressing negative views about AI, Foundry participants generally liked the avatars. Bussgang admitted his digital copy felt a bit 'creepy,' but noted that his students appreciated the tool. A flash sale is currently offering up to $300 off Disrupt 2026 tickets, with the promotion ending within 48 hours. Subscribers to TechCrunch’s newsletter receive daily updates on tech news, with additional coverage on mobility and startups. By subscribing, users agree to the Terms and Privacy Notice.