Startup Launchpad

Introduction

Team up to build tech ventures that matter! The Startup Launchpad (formerly Business Plan Basic Seminar) is your gateway into the world of entrepreneurship. This course will equip you with the necessary entrepreneurial basics to get your idea off the ground. With flexible online learning, coaching support, and practical tools, you’ll explore everything from opportunity identification to pitching. Whether you’re fresh out of the Innovation Sprint, bursting with ideas or passionate about a problem worth solving, this course gives you the freedom, structure, and community to take the next big step—towards real startup action.

About the program

Welcome to Startup Launchpad (formerly known as the Business Plan Basic Seminar), a comprehensive and flexible program designed specifically for student teams who want to develop their own entrepreneurial ideas from the ground up. This program bridges the gap between initial concepts and fully thought-through business models, preparing you for the next big step - such as joining our renowned Xplore Program.

The Startup Launchpad can be completed entirely online, allowing you and your team to participate from anywhere. For those who prefer face-to-face collaboration, we also offer opportunities for in-person coaching sessions. This blend of self-study freedom and guided support ensures you can tailor your learning experience to your needs and schedule.

Here’s what you can expect from the program:

Flexible & Self-Paced
Learn at your own rhythm with regular assignments and check-ins. Combine self-paced study with optional in-person sessions or collaborate online – whatever fits your schedule best.
Deep dive into entrepreneurial action
User & Customer Research: Gain hands-on experience identifying and understanding real customer problems and needs through in-depth interviews and field research.
Assumption & Hypothesis Testing: Learn to define, test, and validate critical assumptions using prototyping and iterative feedback loops to refine your business idea continuously.
Prototyping & Testing: Use your Makerspace scholarship to design, build, and test hardware prototypes, or explore AI-powered software prototyping to quickly experiment and validate your ideas.
Business Model Development: Use proven tools to build a viable, scalable, and financially grounded business model based on data-driven insights.
Pitching & Communication: Develop the skills to confidently pitch your idea.
Bi-weekly submissions
Instead of traditional exams, you’ll complete short “homework” assignments throughout the semester.

Team up to build tech ventures that matter

You apply to Startup Launchpad as an individual—no team needed upfront. During the first module, we help you find the right teammates through a series of on-site and online matching events. These events give you the chance to meet other motivated students, share ideas, and team up. By the end of Module 1, everyone will be part of a team.

The matching events are a great way to connect with students from different backgrounds and disciplines. Whether you already have an idea or are simply curious about solving real-world problems, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore ideas together and form a team based on shared interests and complementary skills. While attending all matching events is optional, we highly recommend joining as many as possible to find the best fit for you. Once your team is formed, you’ll choose one problem or idea to focus on for the rest of the course.

You’ll find an overview of all upcoming matching events and team-building opportunities here soon.

Learning Goals

Develop and validate your own startup idea using proven methods
Conduct user research and test key assumptions through prototyping
Build a sustainable business model
Pitch your idea with confidence and prepare for next steps like Xplore

Application

You apply to Startup Launchpad as an individual. The application period runs from February 16 to April 19. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and confirmations or rejections will be sent out in several waves.

You don’t need to have a team when you apply. During the first module, you’ll form a team of 2 to 5 students, either on your own or through our on-site and online match-making events. Once your team is formed, you’re ready to fully kick off your Startup Launchpad journey.

Throughout the application process, we’ll keep you updated by email and share all relevant information and next steps—so you’ll know exactly what to expect from the start.

Join our waiting list for the next Batch and be the first to sign up for the next one or any of our programs!

FAQs

Is this course open to everyone?

Yes! Whether you are a student, a PhD student or an aspiring entrepreneur, this course is open to anyone. You do not have to be matriculated at TUM.
How many ECTS do I get for this course?

The Startup Launchpad is accredited for 6 ECTS. But accreditation depends on the study program that you are in. You can check accreditation in your study tree or search for Startup Launchpad in TUMonline. If you can’t find out, if the Startup Launchpad is accredited in your study program, get in touch with your study coordinator.
Please be aware, that you can only receive ECTS for this course, if you haven’t completed the Business Plan Basic Seminar before!
I registered for an UnternehmerTUM Academy course through the website, but the course is not appearing in TUMonline. Am I actually enrolled? Will I get ECTS?

To receive ECTS credits for Startup Launchpad, you’ll need to register for the exam on TUMonline. Your course organizer will explain when and how to do this during the official exam registration period.
Important:For now, the registration through the Academy for Innovators Website is sufficient.
Do I already have to have an idea?

No—having an idea is optional. You can apply with an idea you’re passionate about, or you can team up with other students and discover an interesting opportunity together. In both cases, the program supports you step by step in developing a viable business concept.
Can I do this course on my own?

No—you’ll need to form a team during the first module Each team must consist of 2 to 5 students. If you haven’t found a team yet, don’t worry! We offer several team-matching events where you can meet students from all disciplines, exchange ideas, and build your team. You’ll find more info and event dates in the section above.
Can I do this course completely online?

Yes! Startup Launchpad is fully digital, so you can complete the entire course remotely—from anywhere in the world. All learning materials, and assignments are available online. However, if your team prefers to meet and collaborate in person, you’re welcome to do so. We offer optional in-person coaching and team work sessions for those based in or near Munich.
How is the course graded?

There is no written exam. Instead, you’ll submit "homework" assignments throughout the semester. These submissions are the basis for your final grade.