Skandalaris Center

The background image for the website. It is a multi colored mosaic.

Skandalaris Launchpad

Skandalaris Launchpad is a transformative 10-week accelerator program designed exclusively for WashU student ventures. This dynamic initiative is structured to enhance entrepreneurial skills, provide essential resources, tools, and accelerate venture development.


Benefits for participating founders and startups:

Full-time intern support provided by the Skandalaris Center

Access to a network of successful entrepreneurs and industry experts

Workshops focused on crucial business needs, including product development, marketing, and financial planning

Dedicated support for product development and market validation

Connect with a wide audience of supporters and potential mentors and investors at the Skandalaris Launchpad Expo


Skandalaris Launchpad 2024 – The deadline to apply has passed.

Startups will be selected based on a comprehensive application, interview, and potential references from faculty (or relevant stakeholders in the startup ecosystem). There are four key criteria we will be evaluating:

  • Team: Assessing entrepreneurial potential, complementary skills, and commitment to the venture
  • Business: Evaluating market potential, broad impact, and the uniqueness of the product/service
  • Stage: Ideal ventures are in preparation, early market, or later stages with a product/service in the market, acquiring customers, and still learning
  • Fit: Measuring the ability to learn, enthusiasm for utilizing Launchpad resources, and contributing to the community

Eligibility

  • Current WashU students or recent alumni (graduated in or after May 2023), or current student at an identified STLREE university
  • Commitment to 40 hours per week working on your startup (Independence Day will be observed July 4-5)
  • Viable business concept with potential for significant progress during the 10-week program
  • Attendance at all weekly required sessions on Wednesdays (12:00 – 5:00 p.m.)
  • Prepare for and participate in Skandalaris Launchpad Expo on August 7
  • Sign and adhere to a binding participant agreement upon acceptance into the program

Please submit one application per venture.

If you are a student interested in interning for a Launchpad Founder, Click Here to learn more!


Important Program Dates

Tuesday, January 30: Application for founders opens

Thursday, February 15: Launchpad Information Session

Friday, April 19: Application for founders closes at 9:00 a.m. Central

Tuesday, April 30: Final day for applicant interviews

Friday, May 10: Accepted startups will be announced

Friday, May 31: Orientation and Goal-Setting Session

Monday, June 3: Program begins

Wednesday, August 7: Skandalaris Launchpad Expo

Friday, August 9: Program ends


Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dates of the Skandalaris Launchpad Program?

Monday, June 3 through Friday, August 9. Independence Day will be observed July 4 & 5.

When is the application deadline for founders?

The application will open January 30 and will close on Friday, April 19 at 9:00 a.m. Central.

How can I learn more about Skandalaris Launchpad Program and ask questions before applying?

Check out our events page and register for a Launchpad Information Session on February 15. You can also book a meeting with the Skandalaris Venture Development Team.

When will interviews be held?

Interviews are by invitation only and will be held on a rolling basis between February 19 – April 30.

When will I be notified of my acceptance status?

You will be notified within one week of your in-person interview.

How many startups will be accepted into the program?

Historically, we have had approximately 20 startups participate. We remain flexible and will keep the total number of teams in mind as we prioritize a strong 1:1 relationship between each team and the Skandalaris Center staff and a strong sense of community amongst the cohort.