Catapult Incubator FAQs
How old do I have to be?
QØ accepts applications from incoming high school freshman to graduating seniors. We have made exceptions for students who have taken a gap year prior to entering college.
What does the application process entail?
The application process is a way for us to get to know you better, help you find your fit, and get an opportunity to interact with you!
Go here to apply now. If you aren't sure about what fits you best, take our fun 'Find Your Fit' Quiz!
What qualities is the admissions committee looking for?
We look for students who are driven, team-oriented, resourceful, and entrepreneurial in some capacity. We don't ask for GPA or test scores. If you're a curious, problem-solving young person - you might just be who we're looking for!
Are there scholarships or tuition awards available?
Yes! Tuition scholarships are available; students interested in applying for financial aid will be prompted for further information once they begin the QØ application process.
For more information on tuition scholarships & awards, please visit https://www.quarterzero.com/apply and scroll down for more details.
As a note, scholarships for room, board, and transportation are not available. If you are interested in finding additional funding beyond QØ scholarships and tuition awards, we also have some information on how to navigate crowdfunding and local foundations. Please email us directly for more information on this.
What support will I receive?
QØ Facilitators and Community Team Members provide specialized advice for each venture. Advisors from startup companies & top-tier MBA programs guide each venture and meet with you weekly. Industry specialists will teach specific startup skills to you and your team. Pro bono designers will provide each venture with a logo and branding elements. Pro bono lawyers after the Incubator will assist with legal consultation.
What is the time commitment?
Entrepreneurship is a lifestyle, not a side project. Full commitment for the entire duration of the program, both in-person and virtually, is mandatory. We ask students to set aside a minimum of 15-20 hours a week during virtual periods. You will have at a minimum three meetings per week with your Advisor, Community Team Member, and QØ Senior Advisor. Prepare your schedule to be flexible around your QØ commitment and team.
How are teams formed?
Even before the in-person sessions begin, we launch a problem discovery challenge. It's pretty simple - if you have a problem you think needs solving, post it on our forum where other participants will upvote if they resonate with it! Chosen problems will be pitched in-person during our first session, and you get the chance to choose the problem closest to your interest/skill-set through a series of exercises. Even if it doesn't work out, don't worry! We provide the flexibility to pivot ideas AND teams!
What do I do during the remote weeks?
We strike a balance in providing both structure and opportunities for you to have ownership with your team so that you learn the critical skills to be successful as independent thinkers and agents in the entrepreneurial world. During the virtual weeks, you will be working with your team on your venture and virtually meeting with your industry advisor for guidance on venture progress. Special focus will be on developing minimum viable products (MVPs) and functioning prottotypes, as well as analyzing customer response.
Do you accept international students?
We do accept international students. Each summer we have had students attend the Incubator from all around the world. For those who have been unable to travel back and forth from their hometown to each programming city, some have chosen to stay in the United States with a family member or friend. Others choose to do the flight back and forth - it is up to you. As a note, flights are the responsibility of each student & family and not included in our fees.
QØ Startup Camp FAQs
How old do I have to be?
QØ accepts applications from incoming high school freshman to graduating seniors. We have made exceptions for students who have taken a gap year prior to entering college.
What experience level is needed to participate in Startup Camps?
No entrepreneurial experience is needed to participate in QØ Startup Camp. If you're curious and eager to try something new and take risks, then this experience is for you!
What personal qualities do the QØ admissions committee look for in the QØ Startup Camp application process?
Curiosity, willingness to work with a team, and adaptability are some important qualities that will serve QØ Startup Camp participants well.
What does the application process include?
The application process is a way for us to get to know you better, help you find your fit, and get an opportunity to interact with you!
Go here to apply now. If you aren't sure about what fits you best, take our fun 'Find Your Fit' Quiz!
What is the time commitment needed to participate?
We expect all QØ Startup Camp participants to attend the entire duration of the camp, including arriving and departing at designated times for each camp. Complete attendance ensures that students enjoy QØ Startup Camp to its fullest.
Are there scholarships or tuition awards available?
Yes! Tuition scholarships are available; students interested in applying for financial aid will be prompted for further information once they begin the QØ application process.
As a note, scholarships for room, board, and transportation are not available. If you are interested in finding additional funding beyond QØ scholarships and tuition awards, we also have some information on how to navigate crowdfunding and local foundations. Please email us directly for more information on this.
What do I need to bring?
We will provide camp participants with a packing list and more detailed agenda in late Spring.
Do I need to stay in the QØ designated lodging during the camp?
All participants are expected to stay in QØ designated lodging for the full duration of the camp.
Can you book my flight or travel accommodations to or from the event?
All participants are responsible for booking their own travel. Program costs do not include travel expenses to/from the camp locations.
Do you accept international students?
Yes! We welcome international students to apply. Please note that we are unable to offer scholarships to international students at this time. We are also unable to provide flight or accommodation services prior to or after the official designated start and end times for QØ Startup Camp. A conversational level of English fluency will also be helpful as all instruction and activities will be led in English.