UMBC’s Launchpad Accelerator!
The UMBC Launchpad accelerator is a 10-week cohort-based program where ventures prepare to go from pre-launch to launch, or for early-stage companies, create a pathway to accelerate growth.
Founders who are ready to fully commit to launching their venture and validate their idea as an opportunity should apply. Participants are awarded up to $8,000 in non-dilutive funding for seed capital ($4k after 1 month and $4k at the end), and mentors will be assigned to each team.
Teams will perform deep customer discovery, develop a business model canvas, and then progress to a full commercialization plan and pitch deck. The goals of the Launchpad are to validate product-market fit and to hopefully formalize the venture and launch.
TIMELINE
Applications are due May 5th, 2026
Accepted teams will be notified by May 15th, 2026
Program runs from May 28th-July 30th, 2026
Demo day will be hosted in September
