Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR)

At Toyota Research Institute (TRI), we’re on a mission to improve the quality of human life. We’re developing new tools and capabilities to amplify the human experience. To lead this transformative shift in mobility, we’ve built a world-class team in Robotics, Human-Centered AI, Human Interactive Driving, and Energy & Materials.

TRI Propel

TRI Propel is a new startup incubator designed to commercialize technology by launching independent companies out of TRI. Propel brings together TRI scientists and external co-founders to leverage valuable TRI IP for new ventures. The mission of Propel is to transfer TRI research out to society in adjacent markets where Toyota does not have a presence today. It provides funding, support, training, and mentoring for TRI founders.

Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR)

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) to co-found a new business through a newly formed corporate incubator at TRI. As an EIR, you will explore new business opportunities, partner with TRI employees, and execute on an idea with initial backing by TRI. You will bring business acumen and startup experience to complement your TRI co-founder(s) and work to grow the team, launch, and get venture funding alongside TRI’s investment. This will be a 40 hours/week six to nine month contract role that may lead to a material role as a co-founder of the incubated company. After the incubation period, if the company is launched, you will be expected to be part of the new company’s leadership team with salary, equity, and benefits commensurate with the role and responsibilities of an early-stage startup.

• Ideation and Innovation: Identify new market opportunities, and develop ideas to be incubated into a viable business model which may comprise both products and services. Understand emerging trends, technologies, and regulatory changes in relevant industries, and bring them into the discussion as tools for refinement.
• Market Analysis: Conduct thorough market research and competitive analysis to identify gaps, trends, and potential areas for disruption. Assess the viability and feasibility of new concepts and initiatives.
• Business Model Development: Develop and refine business models for new initiatives, including revenue generation strategies, cost structures, and scalability plans. Conduct financial analysis and forecasting to support decision-making.
• Execution and Management: Once an idea is selected for incubation, join a founding team to design and oversee the implementation of proof of concept projects and pilot programs. Coordinate cross-functional teams for successful execution.
• Entrepreneurial Mentorship: Provide guidance and mentorship to team members. Share insights and best practices to foster an entrepreneurial culture and mindset.

• A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in business, finance, computer science, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
• Proven ability to generate, research, and lead ventures, with domain knowledge in mobility, robotics, manufacturing, AI/ML, B2B, SaaS, or related industries.
• Proven track record as an entrepreneur or intrapreneur in the technology industry, with experience in driving innovation and successfully launching new ventures. (ideal: 10 years of experience with at least 1 successful exit)
• Creative idea-generation skills with excellent critical thinking, analytical, execution, and communication abilities.
• Strong team-building and teamwork capabilities.
• Demonstrated leadership with the ability to inspire and influence others.
• Self-motivated and results-driven, comfortable in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Track record of being able to raise capital from the VC ecosystem.
• Deep knowledge of relevant industries, including key trends, challenges, and regulatory landscape.
• Exceptional strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify opportunities and develop actionable plans.
• Strong business acumen, including product management, marketing, sales, operations, or finance experience.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders and external partners.

The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $65 and $67/hour for California-based roles; however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Note that TRI offers a generous benefits package including vacation and sick time. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

Please reference this Candidate Privacy Notice to inform you of the categories of personal information that we collect from individuals who inquire about and/or apply to work for Toyota Research Institute, Inc. or its subsidiaries, including Toyota A.I. Ventures GP, L.P., and the purposes for which we use such personal information.

TRI is fueled by a diverse and inclusive community of people with unique backgrounds, education and life experiences. We are dedicated to fostering an innovative and collaborative environment by living the values that are an essential part of our culture. We believe diversity makes us stronger and are proud to provide Equal Employment Opportunity for all, without regard to an applicant’s race, color, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, religion, marital status, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state or local laws.

Salary : $65 - $67