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Do you have an innovation that could make a difference?ÌýWhether a researcher, entrepreneur, inventor or problem solver, the Starting Blocks Customer Discovery Workshop at Venture Partners CU ÐßÐßÊÓƵ can help you transform your concept into a successful venture. Offered as part of the National Science Foundation (NSF) I-Corpsâ„¢ Hub: West Region, this workshop is for anyone from aÌýresearch or community institution motivated to bring their ideas to life, secure funding and create lasting impact. Over three weeks, gain a deeper understanding of the commercialization process, test your ideas with real potential customers and accelerate your journey toward bringing your idea to market.Ìý

Ready to go further? Starting BlocksÌýis the first step before participating in theÌýResearch-to-Market (R2M) Customer Discovery ProgramÌýand theÌý,Ìýwhere teamsÌýcan win a $50,000 small business grant.

Program Components

1. Interactive and engaging virtual workshops on understanding and empathizing with end-users and key partners. The program equips participants with the knowledge and skills to create a compelling impact case and to successfully bring their invention to those who need it.

2. Twelve targeted interviews with people who could use or benefit from your idea, to better understand and test assumptions about their needs and challenges.

3. Weekly office hours with experienced staffÌýto provide guidance and support.

Program Benefits

1. Gain a deeper understanding of the commercialization process and the importance of understanding the needs of potential partners or customers.
2. Develop a solid foundation in business concepts and terminology. This will allow you to communicate your vision and value proposition effectively to potential users and partners.
3. Accelerate your journey towards commercialization by learning from experienced instructors and staff.
4. Increase chances of securing grants and partnerships by presenting a well-researched and validated business or impact case.

Application and Eligibility

Our I-CorpsÌýprogramming is available to all researchers, inventorsÌýand problem solvers from any research or community institution; all you need is an innovation and an interest in bringing it to those in need. Our programming serves a diverse range of people and ventures, so please contact Susan StrongÌýif you have questions about your eligibility.

Participants can apply to and join Starting Blocks as individuals. However, teams are strongly encouraged, and only teams of three or more can advance toÌýtheÌý.

Starting BlocksÌýis free for all participants.

The application for Starting Blocks is open year-round, and workshops are held four times a year.