Launchpad: Your Venture’s Next Step
Launchpad supports student ventures through mentorship, funding, and a vibrant entrepreneurial community. Open to all current Rice students in good academic standing, Launchpad provides a structured pathway to help you develop and scale your venture.
Structure
Launchpad operates across multiple levels, each unlocking new benefits and funding opportunities as you advance. Progression through the program is based on completing specific gating requirements, which are verified by LILIE staff.
For more program details, click the READ ME!
Eligibility and Application
Application Deadline: There are no application deadlines, as applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Applications will close during Winter Break and Summer Break.
Venture Type: Both non-profit and for-profit ventures are welcome.
Venture Stage: All venture types are welcome, from early-stage to mature.
Application Requirements:
To join Launchpad, submit an application at the link below along with a completed market segmentation. This critical component will be reviewed as part of your application. We require that you’ve spoken to your potential customers before you apply. If you have already interviewed your potential customers, go ahead and apply. If not, then get out there and give it a try!
If you’ve participated in Launchpad in a previous academic year and continue working on the same venture, you are automatically accepted upon reapplication. However, all returning and new participants must apply each academic year.
What is Market Segmentation?
Market segmentation involves dividing your potential customers into distinct groups based on shared characteristics, such as demographics, behaviors, or needs. This helps you tailor your product and marketing strategies to meet the specific demands of each segment, improving your venture’s chances of success. For a comprehensive guide, check out this Market Segmentation Guide, this short video explaining market segmentation or explore Bill Aulet’s approach in his book Disciplined Entrepreneurship.
What to Expect
Launchpad’s structured progression helps you move step-by-step through the entrepreneurial process, ensuring you build a strong foundation for your venture. As you advance through the program’s levels, you will gain access to increased resources and opportunities:
- Group 1:
- Access to Launchpad social events
- Mentor office hours
- $100 funding
- Group 2:
- Biweekly meetings with an assigned mentor
- $200 funding
- Group 3:
- Access to Dinner with the Experts
- Experimentation session
- $300 funding
- Group 4:
- Summer Venture Studio accelerated application
- $1,000 funding
