Social Innovation Launchpad: Pre-Accelerator Workshop

​Pre-Accelerator Workshop: Know Your Why, Know Your Customer

​A foundational workshop from Northeastern University Oakland and the Kapor Foundation to strengthen the applications of founders applying to the Social Innovation Launchpad.

​Lunch provided!

​Why we’re offering this
The earliest stage of building a venture is often the least supported. Before there’s a product or a pitch, there’s an idea that still needs shape. This workshop gives early-stage founders the time, structure, and feedback to work through that stage and build a strong foundation for what comes next. This workshop helps participants get closer to being competitive for our Social Innovation Launchpad accelerator program and others like it.

​Who it’s for
Early-stage tech founders who are still shaping their idea. Maybe you haven’t built a prototype, tested in the market, or done much customer discovery yet. Or maybe you have built a prototype, but it hasn’t gained traction. Either way, this workshop will help you get clear on your story and your next step. This workshop is geared toward tech-native or tech-enabled founders.

​What we’ll focus on

​1. Telling your story and the why of your business
You’ll work through three questions:

• ​- The problem you’re solving

• ​- Who you’re solving it for

• ​- Why you are positioned to solve it

​2. Customer discovery
At this stage, your job is to spend as much time as possible talking to your customers. You’ll learn how to have those conversations, what to listen for, and how to use what you hear to test your assumptions before you invest time and money.

​What you’ll walk away with
Key tools to tell your story and refine your business. Whether you have 30 seconds in an elevator, a 5-minute pitch, or a written application, your audience will understand:

• ​- Why you’re solving this problem

• ​- Your early proof points

• ​- Why you’re the best person to do it

​Next step
A clear story, grounded in what your customers tell you, is the core of an application to the Social Innovation Launchpad.