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Venture Challenge Sprint
A three-week build experience connecting W&M students with real startup challenges.
Overview
The Venture Challenge Sprint is a short, applied-learning program where student teams work on real challenges sourced from regional startups in the Hub’s Launchpad program.
Over three weeks, small teams of William & Mary students partner directly with a founder to prototype, test, and refine solutions to a clearly defined venture challenge. The Sprint emphasizes learning by doing—through experimentation, collaboration, and iteration—while giving students exposure to real-world problem solving and founders access to fresh perspectives and emerging talent.
Who It’s For
Students
- Work on real startup challenges
- Collaborate in a small, interdisciplinary team (2–3 students)
- Build portfolio-ready prototypes
- Practice entrepreneurial thinking through action
- Connect directly with founders and Hub mentors
- Explore paid follow-on opportunities
Launchpad Ventures
- Explore a real problem with multiple solution pathways
- Engage motivated W&M student talent
- Receive prototypes, insights, and validation
- Identify potential interns or collaborators
- Participate with minimal time commitment
How It Works
1. Venture Challenge Intake
Launchpad ventures submit short, scoped challenge briefs describing a real problem they want explored. From these submissions, one venture is selected for the Sprint.
2. Student Team Selection
Students apply individually or as teams. From the applicant pool:
- 3 teams (2–3 students per team) are selected
- Each team receives $100 in Seed Funding to support experimentation and prototyping
3. Three-Week Sprint
Teams work through a structured sprint that includes:
- Rapid prototyping and testing
- Weekly founder or mentor check-ins
- Iteration based on feedback and learning
4. Pitch & Selection
At the end of the Sprint:
- All three teams pitch their work to the venture
- The venture selects one winning team
- The winning team receives a $500 award
Ventures may choose to continue working with any team through paid internships, short-term projects, or future cohort opportunities.
Interested in Participating?
For Ventures
Launchpad members—active or returning—are invited to submit a challenge for consideration. Ventures must be active Launchpad members at the start of the Sprint.
For Students
Student applications open once the venture challenge is selected.
Details will be shared through Hub communications and campus channels.
Join the Venture Challenge Sprint
Students must participate as part of a team (2–3 students). Team matching support is available.
Venture Challenge Sprint Funding Awards Process
If you or your team obtains Seed funds or wins the final award through the Hub, it will be processed based on your enrollment status. Most currently enrolled students receive funds through the university's Department Awards system, while recent graduates or students on break are paid as vendors.