Learning Objectives

• Develop familiarity with Lean LaunchPad concepts and tools such as customer discovery, ecosystem mapping, and the Value Proposition Canvas
• Understand customers’ problems (“pain points”) from THEIR perspective
• Map your customer ecosystem to understand customer roles, requirements, and decision processes
• Build connections to the commercial ecosystem (i.e. customers, suppliers, funders) for your innovation

Course Benefits

• Become eligible for the NSF I-Corps National Teams program and $50,000 grant for qualifying technologies and teams (only deep-tech, university-based teams who complete at least 20-30 customer discovery interviews).
• Upon completion of the workshop and the customer discovery interviews, you and/or your team may be eligible for for a mini-grant of up to $500. Funds may reimbursed customer discovery interview travel expenses.  
• Prepare for applying to the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs.
• Gain valuable market insight to inform the next steps in your research and/or development.
• Develop network connections and receive mentoring from experienced industry experts and entrepreneurs
• Develop the entrepreneurial mindset and toolset needed for a career in academia, industry, startups, or government

Course Schedule

• July 12
• July 26
• August 9
• August 23

Please fill out the following registration form and you will be contacted by program staff regarding acceptance. Questions can be directed to info@greatlakesicorps.org.