Starting Blocks Customer Discovery Workshop
Do you have an innovation that could make a difference? Whether a researcher, entrepreneur, inventor or problem solver, the Starting Blocks Customer Discovery Workshop at Venture Partners at CU Boulder can help you transform your concept into a successful venture.
Offered as part of the National Science Foundation (NSF) I-Corpsâ„¢ Hub: West Region, this workshop is for anyone from a research or community institution motivated to bring their ideas to life, secure funding and create lasting impact. Over three weeks, gain a deeper understanding of the commercialization process, test your ideas with real potential customers and accelerate your journey toward bringing your idea to market.
Ready to go further? Starting Blocks is the first step before participating in the Research-to-Market (R2M) Customer Discovery Program and the , where teams can win a $50,000 small business grant.
The 2025 CEAS Innovation & Entrepreneurship Fellowship Program provides funding for CU Boulder College of Engineering and Applied Sciences (CEAS) babyÖ±²¥app, postdoctoral researchers and graduate students to engage in entrepreneurship training through I-Corps Hub West related to a disclosed invention.
Workshop Details
Components
- Interactive and engaging virtual workshops on understanding and empathizing with end-users and key partners. The program equips participants with the knowledge and skills to create a compelling impact case and to bring their innovation to those who need it.
- Twelve targeted interviews with people who could use or benefit from your idea, to better understand and test assumptions about their needs and challenges.
- Weekly office hours with experienced staff to provide guidance and support.
Benefits
- Gain a deeper understanding of the commercialization process and the importance of understanding the needs of potential partners or customers.
- Develop a solid foundation in business concepts and terminology. This will allow you to communicate your vision and value proposition effectively to potential users and partners.
- Accelerate your journey towards commercialization by learning from experienced instructors and staff.
- Increase chances of securing grants and partnerships by presenting a well-researched and validated business or impact case.
Application and Eligibility
Our I-Corps programming is available to all researchers, inventors and problem solvers from any research or community institution; all you need is an innovation and an interest in bringing it to those in need. Our programming serves a diverse range of people and ventures, so please contact us if you have questions about your eligibility.
Participants can apply to and join Starting Blocks as individuals. However, teams are strongly encouraged, and only teams of three or more can advance to the .
Starting Blocks is free for all participants.
The application for Starting Blocks is open year-round, and workshops are held four times a year.