StartR Stage 1 is intended for early stage novel, impactful, and inclusive venture concepts that ideally are more than just an idea. The objective is for Teams to validate the viability of their venture through understanding customer interest, the market opportunity, the competitive landscape, your value proposition, and the fundamentals of your business model.
StartR Stage 2 is intended for more advanced Teams. The objective is for Teams to deepen their customer discovery, to refine your business model, positioning and value proposition, to enhance your pitch, and to develop go-to-market strategies.
Teams who are active and complete StartR are eligible to receive Catalyst Funding from the Sullivan Center.
APPLICANTS:
- A Team of at least two members is highly encouraged. Solo applications will be considered.
- Ventures that are technology or science-based are preferred, but not required.
- Founders must consider the social and environmental impact and the inclusive nature of their venture.
- At least one active member of the Team must be a UCSD student, faculty member, or alum.
EXPECTATIONS:
- At least one member of the Team must attend all sessions. All Team members must attend the Customer Discovery Intensives (see schedule below).
- All Team members must actively participate in StartR including preparation/homework between sessions and in-session exercises.
- Please attend with an open and adaptable mindset — one that contribute to objectively evaluating your venture and to providing constrictive input to other Teams in your cohort.
- All Team members must participate in a post-program survey and submit thoughtful responses.
SCHEDULE:
Tuesdays In-Person @ Rady
- Feb 4: 5:15-7:15: Customer Discovery Intensive I (both Stages-full Team to attend)
- Feb 11: 5:15-7:15: Customer Discovery Intensive II (both Stages-full Team to attend)
- Feb 18: 5:15-7:15: Customer Discovery Intensive III (both Stages-full Team to attend)
- Feb 25: NETworking – No Session (encouraged to attend NETworking)
- Mar 4: Stage 1 3:30-5:30; Stage 2 5:30-7:30
- Mar 11: Stage 1 3:30-5:30; Stage 2 5:30-7:30
- Apr 1: Stage 1 3:30-5:30; Stage 2 5:30-7:30
- Apr 8: Stage 1 3:30-5:30; Stage 2 5:30-7:30
- Apr 15: Stage 1 3:30-5:30; Stage 2 5:30-7:30
- Apr 22: Stage 1 3:30-5:30; Stage 2 5:30-7:30
- Apr 29: NETworking – No Session (encouraged to attend NETworking)
- May 6: Stage 1 3:30-5:30; Stage 2 5:30-7:30
- May 13: TBD
- May 22: 5:00-7:30: Demo Day (if selected)