VentureForward Application

Fall 2026 cohort will be open September 1 - September 15.  Apply for up to $1,000 for new teams or up to $2,500 for returning teams.  If you are a returning team, you will need to demonstrate progress and prepare a mini-pitch for your venture. Reach out if you would like more information!

Application link - https://virginia.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9HTXUVeIrCNB1A2

You can expect these types of questions - 

  • First Name
  • Last Name
  • UVA Email Address
  • What is the home academic department for the primary applicant?   This is to help with your program funding + reimbursements.
  • If you have a team, please list all your team members (name, UVA email address, school/major) and how they will meaningfully contribute to the project (1-2 sentences for each person).
  • If you are a student - VentureForward funds cannot be used towards independent studies, Capstones, or any classroom-related projects.  Please indicate below that you understand this.
  • What are you working on?  Name of project/startup, problem you are solving, and why it is important (200 character limit)
  • VentureForward is a program committed to supporting venture building and entrepreneurship.  The program has funded 100% of requested project funds.  How much are you requesting?  
  • New teams can request up to $1000.  Returning teams can request up to $2500. And the funds are stackable for each semeter.  
  • Upload a spreadsheet-based milestone plan (e.g. Gantt Chart).  It should include 3-5 milestones and time needed for each milestone (in weeks). 
    In the same spreadsheet, submit your proposed budget for how you plan to use the funds.  The budget should include individual line items for each expense.  Please include details on the expenses such as vendor and units, including hyperlinks if possible.  The VentureForward website has an image of an example (https://engineering.virginia.edu/offices-programs/ventureforward/ventur…).
  • Example screenshot here - Screenshot 2024-10-02 at 6.32.19 PM.png
  • Please review UVA policies on allowable and non-allowable expenses
  • https://uvafinance.virginia.edu/payments-expensing/expensing-reimbursements
  • https://uvafinance.virginia.edu/goods-services-guide
  • If you have direct investment to support this project, please disclose the amount and purpose of funds. If none, please write N/A.
  • If you have a pitch deck, please upload.  (Optional)

Questions?  Email [email protected].