Runway
An opportunity for any UND student to advance their business idea.
Runway is powered by the Center for Innovation's (CFI) Start-up Fund and The Nistler College of Business & Public Administration. This is a two-phase program that combines start-up training, mentorship by dedicated staff & seasoned business owners, networking with peers and industry experts, and access to up to $10,000 in mini-grant funding to support UND student ventures. Runway is offered to any UND student or Alumni during the UND academic year.
Runway In Action
Current Runway Accelerator Participants
MindMend Biotech is developing NeuroClear ProPark, a wearable device designed to monitor the progression of Parkinson’s disease in real-time, enhancing diagnostic tools and patient care. With strong expertise in biomedical engineering, the team aims to build a prototype, conduct laboratory testing, and collaborate with multidisciplinary experts to contribute to advancements in neurodegenerative research.
Led by Mercedes Terry, Abigail Tubbs, Paige Beduhn - Biomedical Students, UND
Education Props is reimagining aviation training through innovative, engaging manuals that combine educational content with entertainment to improve learning outcomes. Rachel brings decades of experience as a commercial pilot, flight instructor, and aviation leader, while Heather contributes expertise in curriculum development. They would like to publish their first book next year, with plans to seek legal counsel and graphic design support.
Led by:
SHARP Biomedical is a medical device startup focused on developing minimally invasive solutions for chronic back pain. With a PhD specialization in interventional pain technologies and an MBA, Dan leverages his previous experience as VP of Operations for a medical device startup. The company seeks legal guidance on intellectual property and investment opportunities to advance product development.
Led by Dan Newman - PhD Candidate, Biomechanical Engineering
Bosek Industries designs high-performance components for snowmobile racing teams to enhance vehicle competitiveness. Anakin is a a third-generation racer with eight years of experience in the automotive and powersports industries. The company plans to acquire advanced manufacturing tools, including 3D printing, to launch operations.
Led by Anakin Bosek - Mechanical Engineering Student
MM Longboards crafts custom longboard skateboards that combine innovative performance materials with bespoke artwork, reflecting individual style. Drawing on UND studies in composites, Matthew is advancing the use of sustainable, high-performance materials to refine designs and scale production. He seeks to acquire manufacturing tools for greater process control and enhance outreach to reach a broader audience.
Led by Matthew Malusky – Masters Candidate, Mechanical Engineering
Before starting the Runway Accelerator program, we just had an idea. Runway helped us understand how to turn our idea into a business.Moones Alamooti, CEO of Geotinkers LLC
Pre-Accelerator
The first phase of Runway is seven weeks, focused on discovering the best market fit for your innovative idea, and answers the difficult questions innovators and entrepreneurs face. Students can use up to $1,000 (of their potential $10,000) to discover:
- Who is my customer?
- Does my idea address a pain point for someone else?
- How do I explain the value of my idea?
- Would someone pay for my idea?
- Is my idea scalable?
To move forward to Phase Two, participants must complete the following:
- Complete 25+ customer interviews
- Successfully pitch their business idea
Disclaimer: Advancement from Pre-Accelerator to Accelerator is NOT guaranteed for all applicants. The selection of which ideas will move from Pre-Accelerator to Accelerator is up to the discretion of the pitch panel and Runway mentors.
Accelerator
Students invited to phase two must complete all requirements of Pre-Accelerator and will have access to the remainder of the $10,000 in grant funding toward their business.
Accelerator also includes:
- Weekly cohort sessions with CFI staff and periodic guest speakers
- Weekly office hours
- Weekly mentoring sessions with industry mentor
Disclaimer: The grant awarded in the Accelerator has restrictions on expenses. An agreement will be written between student businesses and CFI to outline expectations and allowable expenses. The request for funding needs need to be tied to the business short-term goals, and directly support achieving goals in the business formed.
Eligibility
Runway is currently eligible for ANY current UND student.
Interested in finding out more?
Use the link below to fill out the interest form to get in touch with the Runway team to provide more information , answer any of your questions, and assist with the application process
Questions?
If you have questions regarding the Runway Start-up Fund, please contact:
- sona.lesmeister@UND.edu
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Ina Mae Rude Building Suite 100
Grand Forks ND 58202-8372
- anthony.maher@UND.edu
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Ina Mae Rude Entrepreneur Center
Grand Forks ND 58202-8372