Idea TestLab
Have an idea you want to turn into a business?
Take the first step and learn the basics about entrepreneurship and starting a business. Our one-hour program helps introduce concepts to budding entrepreneurs of all backgrounds and with businesses of all kinds.
Participants in the program have access to...
- Personalized 1-on-1 coaching from experienced entrepreneurs and business advisors who understand the challenges of starting and growing a venture.
- Seed funding opportunities — up to $500 to jump-start your business if your idea demonstrates strong potential.
- The Mom Test book (provided by the Penn State Bookstore), a practical guide to validating your business idea through better customer conversations.
Learn from your potential customers.
The first step in business ideation is identifying a problem or need that others have too. In this program, you’ll learn how to:
- Engage directly with potential customers and ask the right questions to uncover their challenges and unmet needs.
- Clearly define the problem and position your idea as a meaningful solution that delivers real value.
- Identify and refine your target customer niche, ensuring you’re focused on the audience most likely to benefit from — and invest in — your idea.
Determine if your idea is viable.
Every idea has potential, but not all are ready to become businesses. Idea TestLab helps you assess if your concept is positioned to succeed by guiding you to:
- Research existing solutions and identify where your idea could fit in the market.
- Explore possible business models to see how your idea could generate value and revenue.
- Outline a clear path to market so you understand the steps to reach your first customers.
For questions on how to get started, contact our team!