# 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](/content/programs/accelerator-application/index.html)

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](mailto:beth@startingblockmadison.org)

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

[APPLY NOW](/content/programs/accelerator-application/index.html)

"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.