Innovation and Entrepreneurship Resources
i³ Lab (Ideate, Innovate, Incubate)
The I³ Lab at WPI is a vibrant space designed to cultivate student innovation and entrepreneurship. It provides resources for brainstorming new concepts, supports the development of products with technology and mentorship, and guides startups in launching operations and connecting with investors. Students can utilize the facilities of the Innovation Studio, including the Makerspace and the Business Development Lab, to refine their ideas and business plans.
Location: Innovation Studio | Email: BDL@wpi.edu | Click here!
Business Development Lab (BDL)
The Business Development Lab (BDL) at Worcester Polytechnic Institute serves as a cutting-edge incubator, propelling startups from concept to commercialization. Our mission focuses on advancing STEM innovation and cultivating technical and entrepreneurial expertise while contributing to scientific and technological communities. We provide an integrated support ecosystem for STEM entrepreneurs to transform ideas into market-ready solutions through skill enhancement and practical learning experiences.
McDonough Makerspace & Fitzgerald Prototype Lab
These facilities provide advanced tools for students to prototype ideas, with access to machinery like 3D printers and laser cutters.
Location: Innovation Studio | Contact: innovationstudio@wpi.edu | Phone: 508 831 6272
Key Programs:
- Goat Innovators Summer Accelerator: An 8-week program for early-stage startups.
- AMP! Bi-Monthly Pitch Event: For startups preparing for investment.
- Venture Catalyst Incubator: provides startups with mentorship, resources, and a curriculum to support ideation, development, pitching, and growth.
Student Clubs
- CEO Club: Fosters leadership skills and networking among aspiring business leaders | Website Link.
- Colibre Club: Merges business and technology for leadership development.| Website Link.
- Enactus WPI: Empowers students to create impactful projects through social entrepreneurship.| Website Link.
Key Events
- WPI i³Lab Demo Day: A pitch competition for student startups with a total prize pool of $48,500, scheduled for September 18, 2024. Website Link. | Applications will open in Summer 2025
- Woo Tank: It is Shark Tank-style pitch competition where top student-run businesses from Worcester colleges compete for real funding. Website Link | Applications will open in Early 2025
- BDL Goat Innovators Summer Accelerator (GISA): A 10-week accelerator program designed to support student entrepreneurs in building and scaling their ventures. Participants receive mentorship, resources, and funding to develop their startups and prepare for market launch. Website Link | Applications will open in Early February 2025.