The TTU I-Corps Program is now offering two unique pathways for teams seeking an immersive customer discovery experience. 'Customer Discovery' involves identifying potential customers and understanding how innovation addresses societal problems. Addressing these questions at the outset is essential for launching successful ventures and identifying if there is customer demand.

I-Corps^TM is a National Science Foundation (NSF) supported program designed to foster science and technology entrepreneurship. The NSF I-Corps program cultivates and supports VIPs by teaching program participants how to identify novel commercial applications for an idea or technology. Applicants interested in developing an idea, concept, or technology are encouraged to participate.

ACTIVATE I-CorpsTM

This 5-week Business Model Canvas workshop is tailored for early-stage teams composed of students, faculty, staff, and West Texas community entrepreneurs who are committed to solving societal problems. ACTIVATE I-CorpsTM provides an extensive training curriculum centered on the development and validation of business models, equipping participants with the tools to refine their ideas into ventures. Ideally suited for those in the ideation or prototype stages, this program facilitates a hands-on approach to evolving your project from concept to market readiness. Offered in the Spring and Fall, ACTIVATE I-CorpsTM is a catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurship within the regional community.

Apply today through the button below to be a part of the upcoming ACTIVATE I-Corps program!

Upcoming Program Dates

• Applications due: July 11, 11:59PM
• Session 1: August 6, 3PM-6PM
• Session 2: August 13, 3PM-6PM
• Session 3: August 20, 3PM-6PM
• Session 4: August 27, 3PM-6PM
• Session 5: September 3, 3PM-6PM

Program Details

• Sessions: 5 (in-person), each 2-3 hours long
• Modules: Covering Customer Segments, Value Propositions, Channels, Customer Relationships, Revenue Streams, Cost Structure, Key Activities, Resources, Partnerships, and Team Presentations in every session.
• Interviews: Teams are expected to conduct 35 customer interviews, with an optional session for an additional 15 interviews.

I-Corps™ Hub West

The I-Corps^TM Hub West pathway is ideal for diverse faculty research teams committed to learning and meeting the program's expectations. Teams should have the required roles filled: Entrepreneurial Lead (EL), Technical Lead (TL), and Industry Mentor (IM), and possess deep technology expertise. This option is perfect for those aiming to participate in the National I-Corps.

For more details on the West I-Corps Hub program dates and information for ZAP and BOOM programs, click here.

Application Process

Applications will be screened for eligibility for ZAP or ACTIVATE I-Corps^TM. For ZAP, teams must meet specific criteria that include defined team roles and a focus on advancing deep technology. For ACTIVATE I-Corps^TM, teams will be evaluated based on their stage of development, and commitment to the customer discovery process.

Begin your journey of innovation and commercial discovery by applying to the pathway that best suits your team's goals and composition. Join us in these dynamic programs to transform your innovative ideas into viable commercial ventures and contribute to making the world a better place.

NOW AVAILABLE! ACTIVATE I-Corps Digital Certification Badge

The TTU Innovation Hub now offers digital badges for qualifying ACTIVATE I-Corps participants – a verifiable, shareable credential that represents skills in identifying and interviewing customer segments, creating value propositions, and understanding Business Model Canvas components.

Badges are issued through the Accredible platform and adhere to the Open Badge Format, and can be displayed on LinkedIn, email signatures, personal websites and online resumes.

Cost: $5.00 per recipient