The Launch Pad is a novel and successful co-curricular entrepreneurship initiative developed at the University of Miami. It presents entrepreneurship to all Miami students as a viable career option and, through a unique network of volunteer community Venture Coaches, helps them start their new ventures in South Florida and thereby enhance the economic and social growth of the University’s region.

Through customized non-judgmental advising, The Launch Pad recruits student entrepreneurs, offers them guidance and encouragement, and connects them to the local business community as early as possible. As a component of the University’s career counseling, The Launch Pad teaches students not just how to find a job but also how to make a job.

Nearly 3000 University of Miami students and young alumni have accessed The Launch Pad since its founding in the autumn of 2008, 60% from fields other than business. Participants of The Launch Pad have created over 100 new businesses and more than 200 new jobs. The Launch Pad received the 2010 Award for Innovation Excellence in Student Engagement from National Association of Colleges and Employers. In June 2011, Inc. Magazine listed The Launch Pad as one of the nation’s “Best Courses 2011.”

Visit The Launch Pad here.