- Aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea that needs validation
- Side-hustlers ready to test their concept
- Innovators inside organizations looking to launch something new
- Anyone who’s tired of waiting for the “perfect” moment
CO-LAB'S CATALYST PROGRAM
TURN YOUR IDEA INTO ACTION
The CO-LAB Catalyst Program is a free, six-week experience that helps founders and innovators test an idea, learn from potential customers and refine their path forward. Through hands-on sessions, expert guidance and peer feedback, participants develop a business model and prepare to present at Catalyst Showcase Night.
Catalyst welcomes creatives, founders, and startups. We have a particular interest in critical infrastructure and AI, but ideas from any field are encouraged. The program is open to UNC Charlotte faculty and staff and to members of the greater Charlotte community. UNC Charlotte students are not eligible, but can explore entrepreneurship programs for students through the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
Who is this program for?
What you’ll do
CATALYST PROGRAM
What will the six weeks look like?
In order to complete the program, participants must be present for all six weeks.
Week 1: Kickoff & Team Formation
Pitch your idea. Find your team. Start building.
Date: Saturday, Feb. 20, 2027
Week 2: Business Model Canvas Deep Dive
Map your business model. Identify revenue streams. Understand your market.
Date: Saturday, Feb. 27, 2027
Week 3: Value Proposition & Customer Discovery
Define what makes you different. Create customer personas. Craft your value proposition.
Date: Saturday, March 13, 2027
Week 4: Customer Interviews & Hypothesis Testing
Get out of the building. Talk to real customers. Validate your assumptions.
Date: Saturday, March 20, 2027
Week 5: Pivot, Persevere or Evolve
Use data to decide. Refine your strategy. Iterate your solution.
Date: Saturday, March 27, 2027
Week 6: Pitch Prep & Final Presentations
Master your financials. Perfect your pitch. Present to experts and celebrate.
Date: April 6, 2027
What you'll get
✓ 3-hour intensive sessions every week
✓ Structured frameworks (Business Model Canvas, Value Proposition Canvas)
✓ Peer feedback and collaborative learning
✓ Expert guidance from experienced facilitators
✓ Real customer validation & market testing
✓ A pitch-ready presentation at the end
How do I apply?
Catalyst is a free, six-week program with 3-hour sessions on Saturdays during the spring semester at CO-LAB at UNC Charlotte Center City, starting at 9 a.m. Bring an idea, learn from potential customers, and finish with a pitch-ready presentation.
Applications open Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026, and close Thursday, Jan. 7, 2027.
Once the application is submitted, you will receive an email by January 15, 2027, determining if you will be accepted into the cohort.