firestarter
Firestarter is a seven-week cohort-based program for founders looking to start a company in the next 3-9 months.
The program will help you develop the critical elements of your business model including value proposition, revenue modeling, and pitch preparation. You’ll also receive real-time feedback from mentors and fellow cohort members.
What will you learn during Firestarter?
By the end of this program, participants will:
- Find your product market fit.
- Learn to communicate ideas effectively to customers.
- Explore ways to de-risk your startup.
All teams will leave the program with a finalized pitch deck and extensive feedback.
Who is this program for?
If you’re a Purdue student, faculty/staff, or alumni with a business idea you’d like to start in the next 3-9 months, this is the program for you. Not sure it’s the right fit? Apply anyway and our team will help you find the program best suited to your needs.
Key Information
Applications Open:
January 5, 2026
Applications Close:
February 1, 2026 @ 11:59P.M.
Firestarter Kickoff:
February 10, 2026
Firestarter End Date:
March 31, 2026
Workshop Dates:
Tuesdays
- Virtual cohort 9A.M.-12P.M.
- In-person cohort 1P.M.-4P.M.
Location
This cohort will be hosted both virtually and in-person.