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

APPLY NOW

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

QUESTIONS

Beth at beth@startingblockmadison.org

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

APPLY NOW

"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.

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What to Expect

EDUCATION

We'll share the right information at the right time, so you focus on the right tasks.

MENTORSHIP

Get access to world-class content in a safe, friendly and fun environment.

GUIDANCE

We work with you to identify your next critical milestone and develop a plan, budget and timeline to tackle it.

NETWORKING

Join our vibrant community with weekly networking opportunities and a dedicated space to work.