Illinois I-Corps

Lean Launchpad Short Course

Lean Launchpad Short Course

Lean Launchpad Short Courses use the Lean LaunchPad method to give participants a working knowledge of how to think about their innovation ideas from a business and customer perspective, as well as how to conduct customer discovery interviews; the first step in any commercialization process. This course provides a set of skills and entrepreneurial knowledge that can be applied to any career path. Held on campus, the short courses are typically open to non-university participants as well.

Benefits of the Program

  • Develop best practices for conducting customer discovery and identifying key stakeholders.
  • Learn, practice, and hone your innovation skills.
  • Improve the odds for commercial success.
  • Understand market trends and needs in your ecosystem.
  • Expand your network of like-minded peers, instructors, investors, customers, and mentors.
  • Obtain eligibility to apply for $50,000 grant from the National NSF I-CorpsTM team grant.
  • Prepare for applying to the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer programs.

Summer 2025 Session Dates

Virtual | Zoom information will be sent to participants once they are accepted into the program. 

  • Fri | May 30 | 10:00am - 12:00pm - Session 1
  • Fri | June 6 | 10:00am - 12:00pm - Session 2
  • Fri | June 20 | 10:00am - 12:00pm - Session 3
  • Thurs | July 3 | 10:00am - 12:00pm - Session 4

Apply Here for Summer Session

Fall 2025 Session Dates

All sessions will be on campus and have food provided. Location will be shared with participants once they are accepted into the program.    

  • Weds | Sep 24 | 4:00 - 6:00pm - Session 1
  • Weds | Oct 15 | 4:00 - 6:00pm - Session 2
  • Weds | Oct 29 | 4:00 - 6:00pm - Session 3
  • Weds | Nov 12 | 4:00 - 6:00pm - Session 4

Apply Here for Fall Session



 

The application process begins with an application submission to the program of the team’s choosing. In the days following an application submission, the team will be contacted by a member of the Hub team with additional details regarding next steps.  If you have questions, please contact Jed Taylor, jedt@illinois.edu.