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In this article, we talk about Launchpad Brevard. Uncover the story behind this hidden gem on the Space Coast. Explore now and satisfy your curiosity.
Launchpad Brevard is a non-profit startup accelerator and incubator based in Brevard County, Florida. Founded in 2012, its mission is to energize and nurture the local startup ecosystem by providing education, mentoring, and access to funding for high-potential entrepreneurs and early-stage companies.
As a key player in the regional innovation hub, Launchpad Brevard aims to cultivate a vibrant community of startups addressing major challenges and opportunities. By supporting local founders, facilitating connections, and attracting talent and capital, it seeks to accelerate the growth of disruptive ventures that can have an economic impact on the community and beyond.
Launchpad Brevard’s Programs and Offerings
Launchpad Brevard runs a comprehensive suite of programs to meet startups at every stage, from ideation to scaling up.
Incubation Program
The 12-week incubation program selects up to 15 startups bi-annually to participate in an intensive boot camp. In exchange for a 5% equity share, Launchpad provides office space, tech tools, and access to a network of over 100 mentors. During weekly check-ins, founders gain business insights and get feedback to iterate on their MVP. The program culminates in a Demo Day where participants can pitch to investors.
Accelerator Program
Launchpad’s 3-month accelerator is focused on raising capital. The 10 participating startups receive extensive pitch coaching and connections to angel, VC, and grant funding opportunities. To align incentives, Launchpad takes an 8-10% equity stake in exchange for $20,000 in seed funding. Participants gain access to discounted office space and flexible manufacturing facilities to rapidly develop and test prototypes. Click to read about how long are movie previews.
Coworking Space
Launchpad’s 10,000 sq ft coworking campus in Melbourne provides affordable office rentals for entrepreneurs. Members can use high-speed internet, and conference rooms, and receive discounts on events and workshops. The collaborative community facilitates networking and peer learning.
Educational Events and Workshops
Throughout the year, Launchpad hosts free seminars, panels, meetups, and mixers to educate and connect the startup community. Experts share insights on product development, marketing strategies, legal issues, funding, and growth.
Key Benefits of Participating in Launchpad Brevard
Launchpad Brevard offers compelling value across 4 main areas:
Access to Funding and Investors
Participants gain exclusive access to Launchpad’s network of angel investors, VCs, and grant programs. Prep services for investor demos help startups hone their pitch and secure key funding.
Mentorship and Expert Support
Launchpad facilitates one-on-one matches with industry veterans to advise startups on specific challenges. Office hours and advisory boards provide personalized guidance.
Cutting-Edge Facilities and Resources
Startups utilize Launchpad’s prototyping labs, coworking spaces, discount software, and equipment to test and build products in a collaborative environment.
Connections and Community
The tight-knit ecosystem enables startups to gain visibility and make critical connections with partners, talent, media, and influencers in the industry.
Launchpad Brevard Success Stories
Launchpad Brevard has helped over 150 startups raise $25 million in early-stage capital. Here are a few alumni highlights:
Healthcare Startup X
The founders of X participated in Launchpad’s 2015 accelerator. With guidance from health tech mentors, X pivoted from B2C to B2B and found a profitable niche. Today, X has 20 employees and has raised $5 million in VC funding.
Drone Technology Startup Y
Y leveraged the rapid prototyping resources in Launchpad’s coworking space to refine designs and collect flight data. This allowed them to secure a $300,000 grant from NASA. Recently, Y was acquired by a Fortune 500 aerospace company.
Fashion App Startup Z
Z struggled with traction for over a year before joining Launchpad’s incubator in 2018. The intense design sprints and direct user feedback helped Z redefine their personas and improve engagement 5X. Last year, Z raised $2.2 million in seed funding.
How to Get Involved with Launchpad Brevard?
Explore the exciting opportunities at Launchpad Brevard and become an integral part of our thriving community. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or someone passionate about innovation, there’s a place for you. Dive into collaborative projects, attend events, and connect with like-minded individuals. Your journey with Launchpad Brevard starts here!
Final Thought
As a non-profit startup hub, Launchpad Brevard strives to develop a thriving local innovation ecosystem in Brevard County. Through unique programs tailored to entrepreneurs at all stages, close-knit community events, and an open culture of sharing, Launchpad fosters the next generation of startups destined for growth and impact. Its mission-driven model sets an inspiring example for startup communities everywhere.
People also ask
What is the application process like for Launchpad Brevard?
The competitive application requires a short business summary Deck, team bios, video pitch, and answers to key questions about the problem, solution, business model, and growth plans. Applicants who pass the initial screening are invited to interview with startup experts.
What makes Launchpad Brevard unique?
Launchpad focuses squarely on supporting the local startup community with tailored programs, facilities, and events. The non-profit status enables accessible pricing. There is a spirit of openness and community, unlike most accelerators.
How much does it cost to participate?
While exact prices vary, Launchpad’s incubator costs around $500-$1000/month, the accelerator takes 8-10% equity, and hot desk memberships start at $200/month. Need-based scholarships are available.
What results have Launchpad Brevard startups achieved?
Over 150 alumni startups have created 500+ jobs and raised over $25 million in early-stage funding. The 5-year survival rate of Launchpad startups is 75% compared to 50% nationally.
What skills are most important for startups to succeed?
Strong domain expertise, technical capabilities, business acumen, and financial management are key. However, resilience, adaptability, and team collaboration are equally critical to navigating unexpected challenges.
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