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 

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.

Fall 2026 Schedule

Wednesdays | September 2 - December 9
3 - 5:30 p.m.

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

INTEREST FORM

Questions?

If you have questions regarding the Runway Start-up Fund, please contact: