Programs

This 2-credit course uses the Lean LaunchPad structured process to learn the initial process of customer development by testing market acceptance of a specific new business concept. Students (both undergrad and graduate level) from across the University of Minnesota are welcome to enroll as long as they have a specific idea or technology that they are interested in pursuing. The goal of the course is to teach the process to quickly and efficiently test the value and market fit for a new concept.  This in-person class meets each fall and spring on Tuesday afternoons at 3:45.

Emerging and ongoing opportunities to learn about what it takes to commercialize inventions and/or launch technology/science-driven ventures. Conferences, competitions, events and seminars for innovators and entrepreneurs from MIN-Corps, as well as our collaborators and partners.  Click on the dates for registration info.

The Great Lakes I-Corps Hub Jumpstart Technology Commercialization online workshops help researchers explore the commercial viability of STEM-based innovation ideas. Each course includes 5 biweekly sessions: Course Orientation, Product-Market Fit, Customer Discovery, Market Assessment, Commercialization Pathway. In between the formal course sessions, participants conduct 20-30 customer discovery interviews, complete online learning assignments, apply the tools to their own tech, and receive feedback and coaching from experienced instructors/mentors.  Successful completion of a Jumpstart course can qualtify academic teams for nomination to the NSF I-Corps Teams program, which includes a $50,000 grant.

Participants apply the Lean LaunchPad methodology to learn how to translate their science and technology innovations to real-life products and services. Five modules: intro, product-market fit, customer discovery, pathway to commercialization, and market assessment. 

• Science and Engineering VPD - a compressed, localized version of the regional Jumpstart course.  For academics exploring the commercial potential of specific innovations emerging from their research.  Entails outreach for stakeholder interviews. Successful completion can qualify academic teams for the NSF I-Corps Teams program ($50,000 grant). 
• Launch MN VPD Certificate Course - for business people across the State of Minnesota taking the early steps to build fundable, high-growth businesses based on specific innovations. Provides the groundwork for an SBIR or Launch MN grant application, as well as investor due diligence.
• VPD Webinar - for business people and academics seeking an overview of the Lean LaunchPad approach; no specific innovation or homework is required.