Startup Wildcats: Accepting Applications
Startup Wildcats is thrilled to launch the Student Milestone Funding initiative, made possible through the generous support of Ray Zinn, founder of Micrel and a visionary entrepreneur. This funding provides University of Arizona students with critical financial support to advance their ventures, bridging the gap between ideation and execution. By helping student entrepreneurs move from one milestone to the next, we are fueling innovation, fostering real-world problem-solving, and empowering the next generation of Wildcat founders. UArizona is one of only six institutions nationwide—alongside West Virginia University, Virginia Tech, Utah Valley University, BYU, San Jose State, and Marshall University—to receive support from Ray Zinn’s foundation, placing us among a select group committed to cultivating startup success.
- Eligibility: Must be a current University of Arizona student.
- Deliverables: Each award requires deliverables (e.g., social media posts, reports, participation in programs, mentorship meetings).
- Mandatory Attendance at Startup Nights (ENR2, 5-7pm):
- Tues, Feb 18
- Tues, Mar 18
- Tues, Apr 15
- RSVP HERE
Student Milestone Funding can be used to help student entrepreneurs advance their ventures in tangible ways, including:
- Travel to pitch competitions to represent UArizona and gain exposure.
- Prototyping and product development to refine and test innovative ideas.
- Customer discovery efforts, such as conducting interviews and market validation.
- Customer acquisition strategies, including digital marketing and outreach.
- Legal and business expenses, such as incorporating a startup or securing IP protection.
- Participation in conferences and trade shows to network and connect with industry leaders.
These funds are designed to help students take meaningful steps toward building and scaling their startups.
How to Apply: Join the Startup Wildcats Platform and submit your application today.