The Pava Center’s accelerator programming is an opportunity for student innovators from across the University to work collaboratively to make progress on their ventures. These engaging, cross-disciplinary initiatives build skills, grow networks, and connect founders with other entrepreneurs, from undergrads to post-docs.
Student teams are grouped by stage to allow them to learn together at a pace that makes sense for where they are on their entrepreneurial journey. Spark and Fuel tracks include a stipend and the chance to win additional funds at Demo Days.
All of our accelerators are industry agnostic; any kind of venture (including nonprofits) are eligible to apply.
Kindling: Pre-accelerator for innovators look for people to build with and problems to solve
- Opportunity to win money, build a high-powered network, and discover the next great startup idea.
- Want to be an entrepreneur, but don’t know where to start? Looking for a team and/or a problem to solve? This is for you! Areas of focus include:
- Energy and sustainability
- Healthcare
- AI and CS applications
- Education and well-being
- Applications for Spring 2025 are open. Deadline to apply: Jan. 31, 2025
Spark: Early-stage track for student teams (or solo entrepreneurs) to explore and validate their ideas.
- Stipend grant (upon completion): $500 and up to $2,000 at final showcase
- Online in the fall, in-person in the spring
- Applications for Spring 2025 are open. Deadline to apply: Jan. 26, 2025
Fuel: Later-stage track designed to help committed student ventures get market/investor ready.
- Stipend grant (upon completion): $5,000 and up to $15,000 at final showcase
- In-person in the fall, online in the spring
- Applications for Spring 2025 are open. Deadline to apply: Jan. 26, 2025