Startups & New Ventures
UofL is a natural partner for startups and new ventures. Whether you're already working on your idea or have no idea where to start, we can help your company launch here.
We Can Help You
LaunchIt Product Development Bootcamp
Application deadline: September 13, 2024. Courses are held Thursdays beginning October 3-November 21st 4-5:30 p.m.
Launch(It) Here
LaunchIt is an innovation bootcamp focused on product development and validation ahead of market launch. In just eight weeks, we help innovators and entrepreneurs test their ideas or products in the real world and see if they have what it takes to stick.
In this UofL-backed program, you'll learn from entrepreneurs and innovators with deep real-world experience in product innovation and launch. Our coaches and speakers are all seasoned founders and innovators, ready to help you understand and navigate the complexities of developing the next big thing.
Course Descriptions
Full Course (8 weeks): LaunchIt is an innovation bootcamp focused on product
development and validation ahead of market launch. In Just eight weeks, we help innovators and entrepreneurs test their ideas or products in the real world and see if they have what it takes to stick. Our coaches and speakers are all seasoned founders and innovators, ready to help you understand and navigate the complexities of developing the next big thing.
LaunchIt Short Course (3 days): We are offering an entirely virtual short course, offered over three sessions, this course will introduce you to the basics of customer discovery and product market fit. From the short course, some teams may choose to go on to the 8 week in-person course, or some may choose to focus on additional customer discovery! All teams are eligible for microgrants to support customer discovery once they graduate the short course or the full course. Follow this website for updates and course availability.
FAQs
In LaunchIt, an intensive 8-week course with coaching and mentoring, our curriculum includes Steve Blank's lean launchpad methodology, including lessons on customer discovery, product validation, marketing and other considerations when preparing for market launch.
You'll learn how to:
• Validate your market prior to launch
• Understand the value of a Minimal Viable Product
• Prepare your product pitch
• Prime your product for launch and/or investment
LaunchIt is perfect for:
• Startups, companies and individuals planning to launch a new product or initiative
• University researchers that would like to commercialize an innovation
• University staff and students with an idea for a new business
Out-of-class Commitments
• About 30 minutes each week listening to the Steve Blank Udacity
course, “How to Build a Startup”
• At least five (5) hours each week conducting interviews and updating canvases
• Preparing to present updated Lean Canvas to the group.
LaunchIt costs $895 per person ($250/person for the second and third person involved in the same startup or business). Scholarships are available for veterans, female and underrepresented founders and UofL faculty, staff, students and alumni.
All grant applicants will apply using the same LaunchIt application form. Please contact our staff to learn more about any of these programs and whether you qualify