Academy for Entrepreneurial Leadership | Illinois

By Melissa Chua, Student Entrepreneur

Applying for Illinois Launch is the first step student entrepreneurs can take to lift their small businesses off the ground.  Entrepreneurs with both young and fully-developed ideas are encouraged to apply.  University of Illinois students and alumni are given preference, but anyone who is willing to start their business in Champaign-Urbana is also encouraged to apply. 

All applicants will get feedback on their business ideas, and will be advised on how to navigate the plethora of entrepreneurial resources on campus.  Launch mentors will coach select teams to pitch to the Illinois Champions, as the entry to the formal program. 

Teams chosen for the official Illinois Launch program achieve, among other things, access to funding, incubator space, and mentorship.  See the Summer Development Program 2010 for a taste of the kinds of workshops, speakers, and other resources available to select Launch teams.

Begin the application process by watching the video and clicking “Apply Now” above.  Applicants will fill out an online questionnaire through a program called Angelsoft, which will call for a brief business plan, contact information, and financial data about your startup business.  Not all questions may apply to very young businesses, or your strategy may still be developing.  Answer the questions as fully as you are able. Please email illinoislaunch@illinois.edu with any questions you have about the application process.