Based on the National Science Foundation’s I-Corps™ program for Lean Startups, ICAP helps inventors and entrepreneurs take the right first steps in bringing new technologies and innovations to market.
ICAP includes FREE introductory training programs and counseling services offered through ICAP instructors and local SBDC counselors. ICAP helps startups identify potential customers and develop successful business models based on that knowledge. It is an ideal program for early-stage companies trying to prepare for eventual venture investment.
Preferred Sectors
The cohort will give preference to startups focused on cyber-related solutions, but all companies are encouraged to apply:
- Software
- Telecommunications
- Information & Communication Technologies
- E-Commerce
- Networking & Equipment
- Electronics/Instrumentation
- Sensors
- Materials
- Drones
- IoT
This cohort is being supported, in part, by the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative, an investment in the advancement of cyber R&D, innovation, and workforce development. For more information about CCI, please visit their website.
Important Dates
- June 27, 2021 – Applications are due by midnight (2 days before introductory call)
- June 29, 2021 – 6:00pm – 8:00pm – Introductory Webinar
- July 6, 2021 – Acceptance notifications and communication with next steps (7 days after Intro call)
- July 13, 2021 – 1:00pm – 4:00pm – Customer Segments and Initial Team Presentations
- July 14, 2021 – 1:00pm – 4:00pm – Value Proposition
- July 15, 2021 – 1:00pm – 4:00pm – Customer Discovery
- July 22, 2021 – 1:00pm – 4:00pm – Each team reviews their Customer Discovery Progress over the first week
- July 27, 2021 – 1:00pm – 4:00pm – Final Team Presentations
During this introductory program, there is extensive work done outside the virtual classroom. In addition to the virtual class meetings, participants should expect to spend another 10-15 hours per week on customer discovery and course assignments. At the conclusion of the program, you will remain connected with your ICAP adjunct to continue your progress on the Five Steps to Startup Success over the following 6 to 24 months.
The introductory program is designed to generate a maximum impact over a relatively short duration and should be considered a required first step for anyone interested in commercializing a technology or product, whether through a startup or licensing arrangement. Some graduates of this cohort may be eligible to apply to NSF’s Seven-week National I-Corps Program, which includes non-dilutive grants for customer discovery and prototype development. Additionally, this program can help teams develop better submissions for SBIR and CRCF grants from Virginia’s Center for Innovative Technologies.
For more information email: icap@virginiasbdc.org
Apply for ICAP Introductory Course (deadline 6/27)
