Transform industry, 
impact society, and
change lives.

For driven researchers, creators, and problem-solvers who want to see their product or service changing their industry and the lives of many, but don't know the next steps to take, we provide structured programs to help move your idea from concept to reality. 

Avoid the #1 reason businesses fail by understanding your customers' needs

Discover the best strategy to deliver your idea and make a profit

Tour our programs to start your future

Starting Line

UARF's pre-accelerator program guides beginner entrepreneurs through a step-by-step process of turning an idea into a business concept by introducing them to customer discovery and the Business Model Canvas. Participants complete the 5-step process to elevate their startup and have an opportunity to win prizes to accelerate them to their business concept to market.

Start Your Journey

I-Corps

More than 150 entrepreneurial teams and 630 individual participants have completed UARF's 7-week I-Corps program, which focuses on using direct customer interactions to validate a business idea. I-Corps provides training, mentorship and accountability. I-Corps graduates have launched 72 new businesses to date. ​​

Create Your Cohort

STRIDE Hard Tech Accelerator

Build your deep tech startup with STRIDE. Accelerate your hard technology startup with meaningful, purpose-driven mentorship and a cohort dynamic to build fundamental startup skills. Let us help you move your company forward.

ARCHAngels

As Akron’s premier platform for presenting new ventures, ARCHAngels brings together entrepreneurs, investors, service providers and students for quarterly events. Since 2005, ARCHAngels has presented more than 175 startups, which has raised $800 million in follow-on funding.

Find Your Network

Questions about your idea or business?
We are happy to help!
​
E-mail UARF Startup Advisor, Linda Hale at LSH27@uakron.edu

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