Great!
For Stanford students (only one member of the team must be a student) interested in launching your business here’s the process to apply.
A few things to note:
We do not pick ideas we pick founders - we look for founders that are interested to and have already taken action to test their start up concept. You must meet the teaching team - launchpad is a huge amount of work, hard work. We want to be sure you evaluate the class in advance of applying and we also want to help you get a sense of the launchpad techniques to see if they are a fit for you.
Advise to students sorting through the >140 classes that are described as start up focused.
Talk to alumni of the class/program
Look at the results (Alumni tab on this website)
Step 1 | Attend Office Hours
You must attend two office hour sessions:
See footer for hours and location by quarter.
In the d.school bldg 550 - Bay Studio 2nd floor (only 2 floors in building)
To prepare for office hours have prepared a ‘Founders Hypothesis’ (see resources section)
No need to sign up, just show up to open office hours.
Questions: email perryk@stanford.edu
Step 2 | Apply
We are looking for Stanford students from all schools who are passionate and have an overwhelming urge to start a business or launch a product or service. Please only apply if you’re ready for this big step.
Application for 2026 due 5p March 4 2026. OPEN
Admissions emailed: March 6
Class meets Spring 26 quarter, Tuesdays and Thursdays time 3:00-4:50p Studio 2 d.school
4 units, letter grade or credit/no credit
Link to Explore Courses: Here