Question 1

Who is eligible?

Accepted Answer

We encourage you to apply if you are a current Dominican University student, including undergraduate and graduate levels within any major. We also encourage Alumni from the Class of 2023, 2024, and 2025.

Question 2

How much funding is available?

Accepted Answer

There are five awards that will be granted. Awards will consist of $10,000, $5,000, and three awards of $2,500 to be applied towards your business.

Question 3

Do I have to pay the money back?

Accepted Answer

No. Funding is awarded in the form of a grant to be used solely for business purposes. The grants do not need to be paid back, but require the submission of an annual impact statement for 3 years.

Question 4

Can someone help mentor me through the process and provide some coaching assistance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, please make sure you select 'yes' for the last question on the application form here (https://forms.gle/Fju4D7S8zf2YWnvi6)if you would like a mentor/coach and we will assign one to you.

Question 5

What is the process?

Accepted Answer

Step 1 - Register your intention to participate in Launchpad 2026 by completing the simple Application Form here.(https://forms.gle/Fju4D7S8zf2YWnvi6) Applications can be submitted anytime before March 20, 2025.
 
Step 2 - Prepare and submit Business Executive Summary by March 25, 2026. This 2–3-page document should include the following:

• Problem/need being addressed
 • Target customer audience
 • Proposed solution/products/services
 • Basic operational overview & flow
 • 3 year financial summary
 • Key performance indicators & metrics
 • Amount requested and proposed usage

Step 3 - If selected to be one of five Finalists, you will need to prepare a full presentation (template will be provided) and updated Business Executive Summary by April 24, 2026.

Step 4 - Present your business to an investment committee at the Launchpad 2026 event on April 30, 2026, from 3:30-5:30PM.
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Question 6

What is a Founders Circle Donor?

Accepted Answer

• Commits to $10K donation to the ELF Fund at DU
 • Is invited to participate in Launchpad 2026 event
 • Willing to mentor/coach student business as needed
 • Option to co-invest in student businesses separately

For More Information Contact ELF Project Coordinator:

For More Information
Contact ELF Project Coordinator: