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Next Level

BY STARTINGBLOCK

Validate the Demand for your Business

Now accepting applications for our Winter and Spring Cohorts
WINTER COHORT: Starts January 5th
SPRING COHORT: April 6th
Program Cost for Participants: $5,250

Our industry-recognized certification goes beyond textbook learning—you'll actually start and operate your business during the 36-week program with intensive mentoring from successful entrepreneurs. 


Unlike academic programs, Next Level provides 12 weeks of intensive practical work, 24 weeks of continued one-on-one mentoring, and a 9-month membership in Wisconsin's premier startup ecosystem at StartingBlock Madison. 


WHO

We've exclusively designed NEXT LEVEL for: 

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs with business ideas who lack the practical skills to launch successfully  

  • Young adults aged 18-26 looking for an alternative to traditional college or entry-level employment 

  • Adults, Veterans, and Dislocated Workers seeking to create their own economic opportunities

WHAT

During the first 12 weeks, you can expect:

  • Attend weekly instruction covering business planning, technology, financing, and legal foundations

  • Spend 15+ hours weekly working hands-on to develop your actual business idea

  • Meet with your assigned mentor for 30 minutes monthly to work through challenges and opportunities

  • Complete practical assignments like customer discovery, market analysis, and revenue model development

  • Present your progress regularly to instructors, mentors, and fellow entrepreneurs for feedback

During the 24 week mentoring period, you can expect:

  • Continue meeting with your mentor for business review and strategic guidance

  • Access ongoing support as you grow and scale your business operations

  • Participate in StartingBlock Madison's entrepreneurial community and networking events

  • Receive business consulting and shared services through your 9-month membership

WHEN

2025-26 Schedule:

Next Level sponsored by Associated Bank [applications open October 2025]

Next Level sponsored by Summit Credit Union [applications open December 2025]

2026 schedule coming soon!

WHERE

In person at StartingBlock.
821 E Washington Ave., Madison WI

Now accepting applications for our Winter and Spring Cohorts
WINTER COHORT: Starts January 5th
SPRING COHORT: April 6th

"StartingBlock allowed my team to see what it would take to turn a graduate school project into a business venture. The real world application of the accelerator provided a valuable opportunity for practical application that elevated my graduate studies outside of the classroom."

Claire R.

What to Expect

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