top of page
PXL_20240713_160939247.jpg

Next Level

BY STARTINGBLOCK

Move Beyond the Classroom
with Industry Recognized Certification

2025-26 Start Dates:
FALL COHORT: September 9th
WINTER COHORT: 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. You'll graduate not just with a certificate, but with an actual functioning business, complete legal structure, financial systems, and the network to scale successfully.

We've exclusively designed NEXT LEVEL for:
  • Young adults aged 18-26 looking for an alternative to traditional college or entry-level employment

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

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

What participants can expect:

During the first 12 weeks, you can expect:

  • Attend 3 hours of instruction daily covering business planning, technology, financing, and legal foundations

  • Spend 20 hours weekly working hands-on to develop your actual business idea

  • Meet with your assigned mentor for 1 hour weekly 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 weekly 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

By the end, you'll have...

Business Team

FINAL
SALE

NEXT PROGRAM

 

September 9th, 2025

APPLICATION DEADLINE: August 12th

bottom of page