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 group advising sessions and founder fridays 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:

• Advising – Advising from seasoned entrepreneurs and faculty advisors.
• Founder Fridays – A monthly meetup where work, networking, and mentorship collide.
• Workshops - Tools and knowledge to take your venture to the next level.
• Community Events – Connect with fellow founders, advisors, and investors.
• Self-Paced & Flexible – Engage however it fits your schedule.

Founder Support: Drop-In Advising Hours & Workshops

Get direct guidance from advisors on how to move your venture forward.

• Drop-In Advising Hours – Jan 30th, Feb 20th, April 10th, April 17th

Expert led workshops led by advisors to help you gain the knowledge you need to push your venture forward.

• Friday Feb 13th – Venture Communications & Pitching
• Friday, Feb 27th - Venture Impact and Social Entrepreneurship
• Friday, March 27th – Build and Lead a High Impact Startup Team
• Friday, April 17th – Financial Modeling 

Founder Community & Events

Founder Fridays

1/30, 2/20, 4/10, and 4/24 12-2pm 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 2026 Community Events

• Joiner Fair – Feb 4 | Find co-founders & teammates
• Breaking the Bias Pitch Night – March 4 | Showcase your startup & meet investors
• Social Entrepreneurship & Food Lab  Night – Apr 8 | Connect with mission-driven founders
• Celebration of Entrepreneurship - May 1 | Celebrate a semester of success

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

Questions? Contact venturelab@upenn.edu