LEAP YEAR FAQs

I know. You've got more questions.

When will I know if I've been accepted?

Interviews will begin Jun 23, and the decisions on who will be in the final cohort will be made by July 1st. You will receive an application update by the end of the day July 1st.
What are the dates of the 2025-26 program?

Our fall cohort will start on September 2nd, and will end on May 25th, 2026. Our winter cohort will start on January 5th, 2026 and will end August 19th, 2026. Our summer cohort will start on June 8th, 2026 and will end January 15th, 2026.
What is included in the cost?

The $10,000 price tag covers the cost of 9 months of instruction, books, exclusive access to our cohorts business platform hosted by LeanStack, a yearlong membership to StartingBlock, and speaker fees. The perks of a StartingBlock membership include: opportunity to present at One Million Cups Features in our newsletter and social media Access to the 3rd floor Cafe which includes the outdoor patio What isn't included is food and lodging. While coffee, snacks and occasional lunches will be covered, main meals are not. Participants are responsible for their own transportation and housing, with the requirement that they must be able to attend daily sessions at StartingBlock Madison (821 E Washington Ave, Madison WI).
Is there a payment plan?

The full tuition is due by August 15 or admittance will be revoked. We will accept the following options: Full Payment $10,000 upon admittance Down Payment and Completion $1,000 down payment upon admittance $9,000 by Aug 15th Down Payment and Split Payment $1,000 down payment upon admittance $4500 by August 1st $4500 by Aug 15th
What are the expectations of the participants?

All participants will need to sign a code of conduct, as well a membership agreement and lease. Participants are expected to attend all in person sessions as they are able.
What's the difference between Level Set, Madworks, and Leap Year?

Level Set is a free 6 week foundational program for anyone who wants to start a business. Next Level is a paid 12 week intermediate program for anyone who has finished Level Set and wants to continue their entrepreneurial learning. Madworks is an application based 12 week program for companies that are ready to scale (already have traction, revenue, etc.). Leap Year is exclusively for young adults and is an extensive 9 month program that will encompass all aspects of Level Set and Next Level.
What are the benefits of a Gap Year?

A gap year offers significant advantages, including the opportunity for personal growth and development by building self-reliance and managing responsibilities. It provides a dedicated time for skill development, whether through formal education, apprenticeships, volunteering, or acquiring essential life skills. A gap year can also lead to greater clarity and direction regarding future career paths and educational pursuits through reflection and exploration. Overall, a well-planned gap year serves as an investment in one's future by fostering valuable skills, providing practical experience, and enhancing personal well-being.
Who are the instructors?

Beth Ott, our Director of Programming will lead the initial cohort and sessions. A variety of guest speakers dependent on their area of expertise will be tapped to share their knowledge. Scott Mosley, CEO of StartingBlock, will be co-hosting some sessions as well. Beth holds her Masters in Education and has been teaching for 15+ years. Scott has his MBA and has been CEO of StartingBlock since 2023.
Where is StartingBlock?

We are located on floors 2, 3 and 4 in the Spark Building above American Family DreamBank. 821 E Washington Ave Madison, WI