Spring 2025 Entrepreneurs Bootcamp 1.0 Online Business Accelerator
The Entrepreneurs Bootcamp is an online business accelerator that helps educate Kentucky's aspiring entrepreneurs launch new ventures. All eligible students, staff, faculty, and Kentucky entrepreneurs are welcome to apply to the program. Bootcamp is only open to Kentucky-based entrepreneurs. All other entrepreneurs outside the state are encouraged to seek out your local state resources. Eligibility and acceptance into Bootcamp is competitive and capacity is limited. Previous participants/graduates of Bootcamp will not be eligible.
All applications fields must be completed as instructed, or your application will not be considered. A 500 word project description is required for anyone coming into the accelerator with a business idea. The Spring 2025 application DEADLINE is Sunday, January 12, 2025.
Bootcamp offers weekly educational training sessions geared towards early stage entrepreneurs that are interested in launching a company, networking with local startup community advisors, and creating a competitive business model. It is highly recommended that all interested applicants review the Handbook before applying. For a full overview of the online business accelerator and academic credit offering, click here.
Anyone seeking a certificate in entrepreneurship at The University of Kentucky should review the requirements for the Innovation in Entrepreneurial Thinking certification program (iNet) through the College of Communication and Information.
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There are two ways to participate in Bootcamp. Apply as a Team Leader or Team Member.
1. Team Leader - has a startup idea and is seeking to launch a new venture. All team leaders are required to submit a description that articulates the new business idea (at least one-two paragraphs). Once the application has been completed, you will be contacted directly by the VACE staff to schedule a 1:1 meeting. Note - applicants will not be contacted if the application isn't filled out as instructed.
2. Team Member - is seeking to join a team leader and help develop their new venture. All team members must identify a team to support after Bootcamp Orientation or you will not be able to participate in the accelerator.
Virtual Learning Requirements: To be eligible for Bootcamp, you must have access to a computer with internet capabilities (including microphone/video being fully functional), have experience with presenting with Powerpoint/Microsoft Office tools, setup and schedule Zoom/Google virtual meetings throughout the program, and be fully able to commit to a virtual learning environment once a week for a full semester.
Anyone with an already demanding schedule is not encouraged to participate in this business accelerator, as starting a business is very time consuming. Expect to spend an additional 3-5 hours outside of the regular Bootcamp online sessions working on your idea, as leaders are responsible for driving the project and scheduling separate meetings with your team, coaches, mentors, and judges throughout the program.
Please apply to be considered for the accelerator, and contact Warren Nash if you have any questions: warren.nash@uky.edu
If you are experiencing any issues with the application, please contact Jared Magolan: jared.m@uky.edu