Welcome to the UM Launchpad!
We're a campus-based nonprofit dedicated to helping you develop the innovation and entrepreneurial skills, resources, and tools you need to succeed—in business and in life.
Ideas belong here.
At the UM Launchpad, we believe every idea has the potential to shape the world, from the lab to the studio, from your notebook to your neighborhood.
We’re the place where Ñý¼§Ö±²¥, faculty, and community members come to explore, evolve, and launch their ideas into impact.
Whether you’re a researcher, artist, builder, or dreamer, this is your starting point.
What is the UM Launchpad?
We are UM’s interdisciplinary home for entrepreneurial thinking, idea development, and business support.
From side hustles to startups, from social impact to scientific breakthroughs — we help you shape your vision and bring it to life.
We offer 1:1 coaching, toolkits, workshops, events, I-Corps training, and deep support for commercialization pathways.
Whether you’re just beginning or already building, we’re here to walk with you from idea to impact.
WHAT WE OFFER
1:1 Coaching & Venture Support
Personalized guidance for every stage — from brainstorming to business planning, from prototyping to pitching.
Resources & Events
Self-paced worksheets, templates, events, networking opportunties and short courses to support your growth, no matter your background.
Startup & Project Development
Customer discovery, market validation, operations, and business support
I-Corps + Research Commercialization Support
NSF-backed customer discovery cohorts and research-specific support for translating discoveries beyond the lab and into the world.
MakerSpace Events & Workshops
Interactive space that offers a chance to prototype and develop ideas as well as connect you with collaborators, mentors, and inspiration from across Montana and beyond.
WHO WE SERVE
Students
Whether you’re launching a passion project, growing a pre-college idea, or curious about freelancing — we’ll help you build skills, confidence, and opportunity.
Researchers & Faculty
We’re your partners in commercialization, customer discovery, funding strategies, and ethical innovation design. Got a breakthrough? We’ll help you get it into the world.
Entrepreneurs & Community Members
We support small business builders, local founders, and community change-makers — especially those historically excluded from innovation spaces.
Cross-Campus Partners
We collaborate with Career Services, the Honors College, Accelerate Montana, Tech Transfer, and more to amplify innovation across every corner of campus.
LET’S BUILD TOGETHER
Whether you’re just beginning, pivoting, or dreaming big, UM LaunchPad is your place to start, grow, and thrive.
Explore our resources, join an event, or book a 1:1. Your idea can solve real problems.
