Invitation-Only Venture Launchpad
The Founder Lab is the UW Tech Exploration Lab’s most advanced pathway — a venture launchpad for student founders who are ready to strengthen their entrepreneurial mindset while piloting their ideas in real-world test beds, in collaboration with industry partners.
This is not a class. It’s a test-and-learn build environment.
What Makes the Founder Lab Different
Real-World Test Beds
Pilot your idea in authentic settings with industry collaborators who bring context, constraints, and feedback — while you retain ownership of your venture.
Shared Founder Office at 1403 University Avenue
In addition to full access to the Tech Exploration Lab resources, Founder Lab teams receive access to a shared Founder office — a co-located workspace reserved exclusively for this cohort.
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Build alongside other founders
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Host mentors and collaborators in your own venture space
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Create momentum through daily proximity
Venture-Grade Support
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Dedicated mentors and technical advisors
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Applied AI and emerging technology resources
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Structured sprints focused on piloting solutions, product-market fit, and go-to-market readiness
Founder Rhythm
Founder Track teams operate on a light-structure cadence — weekly build check-ins, monthly milestone reviews, peer feedback sessions and end-of-semester launch readiness benchmarks.
Private VC/Partner Pitch Session
Founder Lab teams are invited to present at an end-of-semester pitch session with alumni angels, venture partners, and innovation leaders.
Who It’s For
The Founder Lab is for students who:
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Have already built something — a prototype, MVP, or working concept
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Have validated their idea with real users
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Are ready to test in the wild and learn from live market feedback
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Have completed the Tech Exploration Lab’s Venture Pathway or bring equivalent entrepreneurial experience
By the end of the semester, teams typically leave with:
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A sharper founder narrative and positioning
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Live market feedback and tested use cases from real pilots
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Clear next steps for acceleration, funding, or continued venture development
How to Join
The Founder Lab is invitation or referral only to ensure readiness, alignment, and responsible venture development.
Questions or want to refer a founder or team? Reach out any time: Sandra Bradley, Executive Director, UW Tech Exploration Lab, sandra.bradley@wisc.edu