Our incubator program is for student founders aiming to make significant progress on their business idea.
In 2026, we are launching Unexpected Company Incubator in collaboration with Human Centered Design & Engineering (HCDE). Come join us for 10 weeks of intense building and discover where the journey takes you!
Why Apply?
Mentorship
You’ll receive mentorship from program partners including serial entrepreneurs and YC alums, Omri Mor, Steve Krenzel, and Beth Kolko.
Focus & Accountability
You’ll focus on developing your idea, keeping you on track with regular check-ins and office hours with program partners.
Community & Networking
You’ll collaborate with other founders facing similar challenges and meet successful startup founders from the community.
Access
Access to coworking spaces on campus
Key Dates & Deadlines
Fall 2026 Application
Tuesday, 11:59 pm, September 22
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview
By late September
Oct 5 to Dec 7 (10 weeks total)
Who Can Apply?
This is program for anyone who wants to build a startup — no prior founding experience or specific coursework required. You may apply as a team or a solo founder. Currently enrolled UW students from any degree program or major, from first-year students to Ph.D candidates are welcome.
We welcome startups from all industries. Teams who entered the Health Innovation Challenge, Environmental Innovation Challenge, or Dempsey Startup Competition are eligible to apply.
The Program
The goal of the Incubator is to help develop your startup idea. Your startup can be at any stage at the time of application, and our goal is to help you make meaningful progress towards your next step. This could mean finding a target market for your product or having a better product with more users.
Batch
Each incubator batch will be 10 to 20 teams. Each batch is led by program partners who advise the teams in one-on-one meetings and weekly group meetings.
Weekly Meetups
Through the 10-week program, we host weekly meetings (two hours on a weekday evening). These meetings feature special guests like successful founders from the Seattle startup community.
Office Hours
Program partners host group office hours every two weeks and one-on-one office hours to help you where you are. What teams discuss at office hours will depend on the stage of the company.
Demo Day
Demo Day is planned at the end of the program if you are ready to pitch in front of investors.
Credits
Optional class credits available.
Questions? Contact Yuko Oaku at [email protected].