Builder Program

Build on your progress. The virtual Builder Program provides a step-by-step guide for aspiring university-affiliated entrepreneurs (students, faculty, staff, and alumni) with a viable early-stage idea to launch a new venture. Builder is the perfect next step for graduates of a Regional NSF I-Corps Program or entrepreneurs with a validated product, technology, or service that have already engaged in customer discovery efforts, found a problem-solution fit and would like to learn how to launch a new non-profit or for-profit venture or pursue a licensing deal.

Upcoming Cohort Dates:

Fall 2026 Cohort | Wednesdays 4pm-6pm CT August 26 - October 7

Applications close July 29

Apply Here

FAQs

  • To be eligible for the Builder program, you must

    1. complete a Regional NSF I-Corps Program

    2. perform, document, and submit a log of 30 customer discovery interviews with insights gathered, and

    3. have a well defined initial customer segment and value proposition.

     Participants are required to attend all sessions of Builder if they want a chance to pitch for microgrant funding. Further expectations include:

    • Attend all live sessions

    • At least 30 customer discovery interviews during the program

    • Weekly mentor meetings

    • At least 2 office hour

    • All content and discussions

    • Pitch at the end of the program.

  • At the end of the program, a pitch day will be held and participants will have the opportunity to pitch their idea to a group of high caliber judges composed of business leaders, investors, and accomplished entrepreneurs.

    Microgrants will be provided for a number of teams that excel in the Builder Program.

  • A limited number of microgrants are awarded to participants displaying a high level of commitment to pursuing their idea and having sufficient, supportive evidence of its merit.

  • Support for the creation of this program was provided via a Faculty Grant from VentureWell.