Race to Revenue

Notre Dame's summer startup accelerator helps student founders launch and grow revenue-generating ventures through funding, mentorship, hands-on support, and full-time venture development.

Race to Revenue is the IDEA Center's premier summer accelerator for student entrepreneurs committed to building real businesses with real customers. Designed for founders who are ready to move beyond ideas and gain traction, the program provides immersive venture development support, funding, mentorship, and access to the University's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Participants spend the summer focused on growing their ventures through customer discovery, product development, revenue generation, and business model refinement. Through workshops, one-on-one mentoring, peer collaboration, and practical experience, founders gain the skills and support needed to accelerate venture growth and prepare for future opportunities.

The program culminates in Demo Day, where participants present their progress and vision to mentors, investors, and members of the broader innovation and entrepreneurship community.

Eligibility

Race to Revenue is open to current University of Notre Dame undergraduate and graduate students who are actively developing a business idea, prototype, or early-stage venture. At least one Notre Dame student must serve in a leadership role within the venture. Applicants may apply individually or as part of a team.

Applicants may apply individually or as part of a team. Ventures should demonstrate a commitment to growth, customer validation, and revenue generation. Because the program is designed as an immersive accelerator experience, participants are expected to engage fully in program activities, including workshops, mentoring sessions, and Demo Day. Preference may be given to founders who have previously participated in IDEA Center Student Entrepreneurship programs and events.

Application Guidelines

Applicants must submit information about their venture, team, and business goals through the program application process. Selection is based on venture potential, founder commitment, and readiness to engage fully in the accelerator experience. Program timelines, application requirements, and selection criteria are published annually.

Funding

Selected participants receive funding and venture development support during the accelerator program. Additional resources may include mentorship, internship support, educational programming, and access to the IDEA Center's entrepreneurial network and ecosystem resources.

Contact

For more information,  email Erin Kinzel, the IDEA Center's Student Engagement Coordinator.