TUCSON, ARIZONA - The University of Arizona Center for Innovation (UACI) has teamed up with Startup Tucson to sponsor one promising startup team with resources, facilities, services, and expert guidance to grow their business. The year-long program will also foster networking opportunities for its participants.
In alignment with its mission to serve as a business incubator and fuel Arizona’s economy through startup support, UACI seeks collaborations with other regional organizations. UACI has had a long-standing relationship with Startup Tucson and has collaborated to successfully support startup businesses through many events such as IdeaFunding, one of Arizona’s largest entrepreneurial conferences and pitch competitions.
UACI Sponsored Launch Fueled by Startup Tucson is an expansion in the partnership, whereas startups will be provided incubation services free of charge for one full year and receive access to a vast network of mentors associated with both organizations.
"We are thrilled to be expanding our partnership with UACI to include Sponsored Launch. The program is such an excellent opportunity for a entrepreneur and team that's ready to accelerate their growth and is a natural extension of the support services offered by our organization. We think this is a great new step in continuing to develop the support and mentorship pipeline for diverse founders in Southern Arizona," said Liz Pocock, Startup Tucson CEO.
The enhanced program will offer customized business support to ensure that the winning startup team has a successful journey through a 27-point venture development roadmap. The UACI incubator network helps entrepreneurs develop a business plan, perform a market assessment, implement product validation, prepare a business pitch presentation, secure funding, and much more for a successful launch into the market. UACI provides dedicated space for startups where they can work alongside other entrepreneurs in a fast-paced environment.
“We are thrilled to partner with Startup Tucson on this Sponsored Launch Program. We have always had a strong relationship with them, and this new collaboration is a natural next step in our joint service to the entrepreneurial community of Southern Arizona,” stated Eric Smith, Executive Director of UACI.
The application window for submissions opened on May 16, 2022, and will close on June 10, 2022. After a review and interview process, the winning teams will be announced on June 29, 2022. The selected team will receive a year of sponsorship at the incubator and office space. The total prize package is valued at $10,000.