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Apply Now for I-Corps

The University of Akron's I-Corps program is accepting applications through February 5.  The I-Corps program is perfect for early stage entrepreneurs who want to validate their idea’s problem-solution fit by conducting customer interviews. Over the course of 7 weeks, program participants will learn the ins-and-outs of customer discovery while working alongside a network of fellow entrepreneurs and advisors. By the end of the program, program graduates will have conducted 21 customers interviews,  performed a preliminary market size estimation, documented a competitive analysis and customer archetype, and delivered bi-weekly update presentations on their progress throughout the course.

The I-Corps program is open to faculty, staff, and community-led teams.

The I-Corps program can help you:

  • Get clarity on your customer
  • Learn and apply best practices on the business model canvas
  • Get direct feedback on your business idea
  • Expand your network and access needed resources
  • Level up your business!

If selected for the I-Corps Program, teams will attend ​a 7-meeting training session that requires them to:

  • Conduct at least 21 interviews with potential customers or end users
  • Perform preliminary market research and competitive analysis
  • Present their progress and evolving business idea multiple times
  • Meet with mentors and instructors to receive candid feedback

All meeting sessions will be conducted virtually for this cohort.

The meeting schedule for the fall I-Corps program is as follows:

  • Week 1: Friday, February 24, 2023 (Group Meeting, 12pm - 2:30pm EST)
  • Week 2: Friday, March 3, 2023 (Individual Meeting, 30-minute time slot between 9am and 3pm EST)
  • Week 3:  Friday, March 10, 2023 (Group Meeting, 12pm - 2:30pm EST)
  • Week 4: Friday, March 17, 2023 (Individual Meeting,  30-minute time slot between 9am and 3pm EST)
  • NO MEETING FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 2023
  • Week 5: Friday, March 31, 2023 (Group Meeting, 12pm - 2:30pm EST)
  • Week 6: Friday, April 7, 2023 (Panel, 12pm - 1:30pm EST)
  • Week 7: Friday, April 14, 2023 (Group Meeting final presentations, 12pm - 2:30pm EST)

Learn more