VIP Incubator is where ideas take shape, strategies get tested, and founders gain momentum. Whether you're refining your concept, building an MVP, or preparing for launch, this flexible, founder-driven program gives you the resources, mentorship, and community to accelerate your journey—on your own terms.

Unlike VIP-X, which follows a structured, high-intensity format, VIP Incubator is open-ended and self-paced. Drop into workshops, office hours, and bootcamps whenever you need. Work alongside like-minded founders at Tangen Hall. Connect with mentors, experts, and investors. The journey is yours to define—we provide the launchpad.

Members of VIP Incubator Unlock:

• Founder Workspace – Work and collaborate at Founder HQ (3rd floor, Tangen Hall).
• Workshops & Bootcamps – Hands-on sessions covering startup fundamentals.
• Mentorship & Office Hours – One-on-one advising from seasoned entrepreneurs and experts.
• Founder Fridays – A weekly meetup where work, networking, and mentorship collide.
• Community Events – Connect with fellow founders, advisors, and investors.
• Self-Paced & Flexible – Engage however it fits your schedule.

Startup Education: Workshops & Bootcamps

Venture Development Bootcamps

Deep-dive, hands-on 3-hour sessions designed to take you from idea to traction. Led by faculty and expert coaches, these bootcamps focus on strategy, execution, and real-world application.

Spring 2025 Bootcamp Schedule

• Product-Market Fit – Feb 14, 10:00 AM
• Customer Discovery & Market Research – Feb 28, 10:00 AM
• Venture Communications – Mar 7, 1:00 PM
• Go-to-Market Strategy – Mar 28, 10:00 AM
• Building & Leading a Startup Team – Apr 4, 1:00 PM
• Financial Modeling Made Simple – Apr 18, 1:00 PM

Startup 101 Sessions

Expert-led sessions covering legal, branding, marketing, intellectual property, and startup finance.

• Legal for Startups – Incorporation, stock, vesting, and funding essentials.
• Intellectual Property for Startups – Protecting your ideas (Led by Cynthia Dahl, Penn Carey Law).
• Market Research & Data – Using Penn’s research tools to gain insights (Led by Victoria Sun).
• Marketing & Branding – Positioning your startup for growth (Led by Taylor Durham & Jun Yuchi).

Founder Support: 1:1 Advising & Office Hours

Get direct guidance from advisors, program directors, and Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIRs).

• Venture Advisor Office Hours – Weekly, various days, 12–2 PM (virtual and in-person)
• Program Director Open Hours – Biweekly (virtual)
• 1:1 Mentorship with Entrepreneurs-in-Residence – Personalized support from experienced founders

Founder Community & Events

Founder Fridays

Every Friday on the 3rd floor of Tangen Hall—no agenda, just organic opportunities to connect, brainstorm, and get things done. A space for founders to meet, get advice, share ideas, and focus on building. Drop in anytime—no RSVP required.

Spring 2025 Community Events

• Joiner Fair – Feb 12 | Find co-founders & teammates
• Social Impact Mixer – Mar 5 | Connect with mission-driven founders
• Venture Night – Apr 9 | Showcase your startup & meet investors

Your next breakthrough could start with a single conversation—get involved.

How to Get the Most Out of VIP Incubator

• Attend Founder Fridays to build connections.
• Join Bootcamps & Workshops for actionable learning.
• Book Office Hours for personalized support.

Questions? Contact Miesha Agrippa at agrippa@wharton.upenn.edu.