Innovation UBC is accepting applications for the spring 2027 cohort of Venture Founder, its flagship entrepreneurship program for UBC researchers, innovators and students ready to turn discoveries and ideas into new ventures.
The 16-week program provides participants with practical training, mentorship and access to a community of founders, investors and industry leaders. No previous business experience is required.
Venture Founder is designed for two groups: UBC faculty members, postdoctoral fellows, graduate students and researchers commercializing discoveries, as well as undergraduate and graduate students looking to test a startup idea with prospective customers.
Participants will work through 16 experiential workshops covering customer discovery, value propositions, market sizing, business models, go-to-market strategy, financial literacy, team building and hypothesis testing.
Founders will also receive hands-on support from the Innovation UBC team and access to a network of more than 250 mentors and advisors. The program is intended to help participants validate whether their proposed venture solves a meaningful problem and identify a viable path to market.
The spring cohort will run from February 3 through June 24, 2027.
Graduates can continue developing their companies through other parts of Innovation UBC’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Options include HATCH Venture Builder, which offers eligible UBC spin-offs up to 18 months of mentorship, fundraising assistance, and access to office and laboratory space.
Venture Founder alumni may also have opportunities to present at Innovation UBC’s annual Investor Showcase, connect with industry partners and pursue funding through grants, venture capital and other investment programs.
Innovation UBC will hold information sessions on September 16, September 28 and October 7 for prospective applicants who want to learn more about the program.
Applications for the spring 2027 Venture Founder cohort close October 11, 2026.
Prospective founders can review eligibility requirements, register for an information session and apply through the Innovation UBC Venture Founder webpage.
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