Take your project beyond the spark.
The UW Tech Exploration Lab is now accepting applications for Venture Build — a structured sprint running September 30 – December 3, 2025.
Venture Build is the next stage in the Lab’s Venture Pathway. After teams explore problems and build early prototypes in Venture Discovery (or an equivalent early-stage experience), they enter Venture Build to focus on deeper market framing, user validation, and go-to-market strategy.
Teams will be paired with MBAs from the Wisconsin School of Business New Product Innovation course, combining technical prototypes with business insight and customer discovery. Together, they’ll refine value propositions, test prototypes with users, and develop early commercialization pathways — culminating in a final showcase to alumni and industry partners.
Why Apply?
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Build on your Venture Discovery project (or equivalent) with structured guidance.
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Pair your technical prototype with market insights from MBA teammates.
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Test concepts with users and shape a clearer path to adoption.
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Pitch your work to alumni and industry leaders at the final showcase.
Program Details
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Kickoff: September 30, 2025 @ Tech Exploration Lab
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Duration: Sept 30 – Dec 3, 2025 (weekly check-ins + monthly workshops)
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Final Showcase: December 3, 2025
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Eligibility: Teams who have completed Venture Discovery OR an equivalent early-stage experience, such as:
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A UW hackathon, sandbox sprint, or project course where you defined a problem and built a prototype.
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Independent work where you have both: A clear problem statement, and a prototype, demo, or proof-of-concept (even if lightweight).
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Not sure if your project qualifies? Apply anyway — we’ll review readiness and may suggest working with the Lab on exploratory activities or a future Venture Discovery cohort before entering Venture Build.
How to Apply
Apply by September 15, 2025 to be considered for the Fall Venture Build cohort. Spots are limited. Contact sandra.bradley@wisc.edu with questions.