The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Launch Pad is a leader in University-Based Startup Accelerators.
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Launch Pad is a student startup accelerator program that educates, inspires and assists in the development of new company ideas or growth of existing businesses. Launch Pad helps students start new businesses if even they just have an idea or help grow existing businesses.
The idea or business could be anything from a tech startup, to a retail store, to an art gallery or eCommerce store and more! Launch Pad is available to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.
"Launch Pad provides our students an unparalleled opportunity to grow their inner innovative and creative skills." - Dave Gee, Co-Director - Launch Pad.
Students admitted into the Launch Pad program become "Launch Pad Scholars." So what benefits do Launch Pad Scholars receive?
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Launch Pad Scholars Receive:
Expert coaching, training and mentorship from professors and entrepreneurs
Business model development
Weekly training on startup fundamentals
Weekly roundtables
Weekly 1-on-1s with Launch Pad coaches
Business model viability analysis
Connections with outside resources: Accounting firms, law firms, marketing firms, Web and mobile app development firms, angel and venture capital and more
Business plan development
Business pitch and business plan competition preparation
Access to iMentors
Leadership Connection to Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization (CEO) and Enactus.
Office space, meeting rooms, Internet, VoIP phones, scanners and printers at the world class Whitewater Innovation Center
Independent study credit option (1, 2, or 3 credits). Or you don’t have to take for any credits.
Launch Pad Scholars receive office space in the state of the art Whitewater University Innovation Center where they can also collaborate with other entrepreneurs.
“The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Launch Pad and Professor Dougan were instrumental in helping me launch and grow my business.”
Launch Pad Application Process
Applicants for the Launch Pad program submit an application for review. They are then invited to provide a three-minute pitch on their startup idea. The pitch includes: applicant background, the market to be served, the market need, the product or service and the sustainable competitive advantage.