Incubator · CEL
UpStarts Incubator
Once selected as an UpStarts venture, student entrepreneurs work with the UpStarts staff to set value-generating milestones and work towards hitting those milestones during their tenure. Participation is open to students from all academic disciplines and degree programs.
Requirements
At least one team member must be a current UCF student, and all team members must maintain good academic standing with the University of Central Florida.
Ventures should present a minimum viable product that addresses a clear problem or need, and teams must be able to balance academic responsibilities alongside building their business. All industries are welcome.
Programming
UpStarts Competency Training. Each week the cohort meets to learn about important business concepts and the foundations from which a successful venture can be built. Sessions are led by UpStarts staff and Orlando business leaders.
UpStarts Community of Practice. The venture cohort meets and learns from each other by discussing successes, failures, and challenges.
Application
Applications can be submitted on a rolling basis throughout the academic year. Applicants must submit complete application materials to be considered.
Resources
UpStarts provides office space, office equipment, advanced coaching resources, and collaboration space.
Student Starter Award
$500
The Student Starter Award, generously funded by Emeritus faculty member Richard A. Quinn, provides $500 annually to help students address early-stage startup expenses. Recipients are selected by the UpStarts Director and the Department of Management Chair.
FAQ
Who can apply to UpStarts?
Current UCF undergraduates, graduate students, and PhD candidates are eligible to apply. UpStarts is designed for UCF entrepreneurs with a product or service that is either generating revenue or in the pre-revenue stage. It is not for those still in the idea phase — those students should connect with the Blackstone LaunchPad.
How long does the program run?
We highly encourage all UpStarts ventures to participate fully in the program throughout the entire academic year.
Does CEL take equity?
No.