UIC Innovation launches Lean Launch I-Corps programming

Do you have an idea that could become a product or a service? Are you interested in bringing new perspectives to your research program? Do you want to consider starting a business?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, then UIC Innovation's NSF I-Corps programming could be for you! Starting in March, the Lean Launch program will give participants an introduction to the NSF I-Corps Lean Launchpad methodology and familiarize them with the Business Model Canvas and customer discovery. At the conclusion of the program, participants are encouraged to apply for the national level with the NSF I-Corps program where you can be eligible to be awarded up to $50,000 in funding. This course provides a set of skills and entrepreneurial knowledge that can be applied to any career path.

Learning Objectives

• Familiarizing oneself with Lean LaunchPad concepts and tools like customer discovery, ecosystem mapping, and the Value Proposition Canvas;
• Understanding customers’ pain points from their perspective;
• Mapping the customer ecosystem to comprehend customer roles, requirements, and decision processes;
• Establishing connections with the commercial ecosystem, including customers, suppliers, and funders, for innovation.

Course Benefits

• Develop best practices for conducting customer discovery and identifying key stakeholders;
• Learn, practice, and hone your innovation skills. Improve the odds for commercial success;
• Understand market trends and needs in your ecosystem;
• Expand your network of like-minded peers, instructors, investors, customers, and mentors;
• Obtain eligibility to apply for $50,000 grant from the National NSF I-Corps team grant;
• Prepare for applying to the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer programs.

Full Course Schedule

• Kick-Off: March 26 – 4:30pm to 7pm
• Mid-Point Check-In: April 9 – 4:30pm to 6:30pm
• Final Session: April 18 – 4:30pm to 6:30pm

Registration deadline: March 15, 2024