DON'T TAKE A GAP YEAR.
TAKE A LEAP YEAR.
Try something new.
Oh, did we mention you could win up to $10,000 in prize money?
Break free from the COLLEGE OR WORK
dichotomy.
Get to Know Us
People are told they have two options after high school: go to college or get a job—with little guidance on alternatives. Meanwhile, college debt is soaring, traditional careers are shifting, and many graduates feel lost, unprepared, and stuck.
The real problem isn’t a lack of options—it’s the lack of support for young people to explore different paths, whether that’s entrepreneurship, trade skills, or self-directed learning. Instead of forcing a one-size-fits-all decision, we need to equip folks with the tools to build careers that fit their skills, interests, and today’s economy.
The future of work isn’t either/or—it’s what you make it.
ENTER THE LEAP YEAR
A year for creatives and entrepreneurs to invest in themselves, develop an entrepreneurial mindset, and learn how to solve real problems. Instead of feeling lost or unprepared, participants gain hands-on experience in building a business, connect with a supportive network, and develop the skills to navigate an evolving economy.
Through mentorship, workshops, and real-world challenges, the Leap Year provides the structure and guidance missing from traditional post-grad choices. It’s not about delaying the future—it’s about designing it with confidence.
Taking a year to explore and grow isn’t a new concept—gap years have been proven to increase confidence, independence, and long-term success. The Leap Year builds on this idea but with a focus on entrepreneurship and problem-solving. Instead of just traveling or taking a break, young people spend the year identifying real-world challenges, testing business ideas, and developing the skills to turn problems into opportunities.
It’s a gap year with purpose—designed to help folks take control of their future and create something meaningful.
These folks created their own path.
We don't just help Fortune 500 companies. We support young, local entrepreneurs who want to blaze their own path.
What we'll cover.
PHASE ONE
4 weeks to find the right problem to solve. (Think brainstorms, talking to people and throwing spaghetti against the wall to see what sticks.)
MOST CREATIVE IDEA WINS $250!
PHASE TWO
8 weeks to test and build. We'll develop the thinnest slice (your MVP) to see if we can find your hell yes customer.
FIRST OPPORTUNITY TO WIN $5,000 HAPPENS AFTER 12 WEEKS!
PHASE THREE
Once you've found something people want, it's time to really build and scale. Plan on spending long hours developing your product, service, business or widget.
NEXT OPPORTUNITY TO WIN UP TO $5,000 HAPPENS AT THE END!
What you'll create.
.png)
Some of the deliverables include a Lean Canvas, Traction Roadmap, a Now, Next, Later Plan, and a 10 slide pitch deck
Take the LEAP for less than $30/day.
I know. You've got more questions.
Who is this for, really?
Leap Year is for aspiring entrepreneurs ready to take a year to focus on building something real. Maybe you've been running a side hustle-baking cupcakes out of your apartment, restoring sneakers in your dorm room, or coding late into the night- and now you want to take it to the next level. Whether you're taking a break before starting college, exploring what's next after earning a technical degree, or just not ready to commit to a traditional path, this program gives you the space, resources, and community to turn your ideas into action. Education comes in many forms...Leap Year is an opportunity to learn by doing so you can move forward with clarity and experience, whether that means launching your own business or continuing your education.
While the majority of participants are local to Madison or the surrounding area and will commute in, some people may move to Madison for this program. We are actively seeking a housing partnership with hyper local apartment buildings. (think across the street or a few blocks away!)
Eligible to residents of the US, 18 years or older. This program does not meet eligibility requirements for a student visa.
What's the cost include?
$1200=software license for LeanStack
$200= books and supplies
$3600=1 year membership and dedicated desk at StartingBlock
$5000=instructional fees and guest speaker fees
$10,000 total
StartingBlock membership includes monthly events like lunches, founder speaker series, excellent coffee, and the opportunity to participate in the highly coveted chili cook off in February. Educational content runs from September through May.
Fees will not be reimbursed or returned if participants drop out or stop attending.
What about homework? Grades?ACCOUNTABILITY?!
Grades=NO
Credits=Nope.
Homework=YES (I mean, do you want to build a successful business??)
There will be due dates, deadlines, feedback cycles, stand and delivers, etc.
Look, no one is going to email your parents if you don't do the work . I WILL email your accountability buddy so they can get on your case.
Why wouldn't I just go to college?
DO IT. GO. WE ARE NOT COLLEGE.
We have great relationships with many programs on the UW campus and at Madison College. They are great at what they do.
We are strictly entrepreneurship-centric. There are no classes or lessons about investment portfolios, risk management, human resources, or middle management. We focus on your business idea, what you need to know, and decisions you need to make.
Tell me about the money I could win.
YOU COULD WIN UP TO $10,250!
At the completion of each phase, there will be an opportunity to present your idea for a cash money prize.
Phase 1: Present your Lean Canvas for a chance to win $250.
Phase 2: Pitch your business idea for a chance to win $5,000!
Phase 3: Vote for your cohort...who should win the grand prize? ($5,000)
What do I get at the end of the program?
YOU COULD START YOUR OWN BUSINESS!
Program participants will develop a Business Model, a traction roadmap, a market analysis, and a professional pitch deck, among other essential tools. They will also build key skills, including:
-
Public speaking – mastering presentations, interviews, and networking
-
Leadership – strengthening decision-making and problem-solving abilities
-
Personal branding and storytelling – crafting a compelling narrative for themselves and their business
-
Time management and productivity – prioritizing tasks and maximizing efficiency
-
Financial literacy – understanding budgets, revenue models, and funding strategies