Blackstone LaunchPad

The Blackstone LaunchPad at UCF supports students, regardless of level or focus of study. Located in the lobby of the Student Union, our LaunchPad serves as a hub for all students to develop a business mindset to be best prepared for professional success.  Whether students are looking to develop a business idea, start a side hustle, grow a business, or lead within an organization, our team is dedicated to educate, mentor, inspire, and support.

Welcome to The LaunchPad

Visit our location on main campus to:

  • attend a workshop, industry speaker, or social event
  • compete for cash prizes
  • meet with industry experts for 1-on-1 confidential coaching for your business and career goals

 

Skills for Career Success

The skills needed to make you more competitive in the workforce– creativity, problem solving, determination and clear communication – are the skills needed to build a successful business. The Blackstone LaunchPad gives students the opportunity to hone these skills so they can compete in the job market and fully realize their potential.

A Powerful Network

The LaunchPad network gives students opportunities to learn from established entrepreneurs, business leaders, and industry professionals. Visit our LaunchPad to connect learn more about industries, explore a career journey, meet a potential employer, or learn how to be more successful in your field of study.

Boost Your Earning Potential

Visit ucf.startuptree.co to learn more about our internships, jobs, and competitions.  Last year, student won over $45,000 in cash prizes from UCF’s Blackstone LaunchPad.  Do not miss out on competing for cash to grow your business idea.

Blackstone UCF Internship Program

Are you looking for an Internship for Summer, Fall or Spring? Click the button below to explore a variety of $20/hr internships with companies around Florida.

Startup Fest 2024

StartupFest ’24 is a showcase of UCF student startups, campus resources, and community partners that helps students connect to entrepreneurial mentors, money, and credentials. Students can improve their career readiness by learning entrepreneurial mindsets and skillsets needed to achieve success and “future-proof” their careers.

Orlando Magic Innovation Challenge

The Orlando Magic Innovation Challenge at UCF engages and inspires students from all disciplines to offer innovative solutions related to “international engagement” with the team, players, and brand. The Magic are asking UCF students to help them address this challenge and are sponsoring cash prizes to reward those who propose creative, actionable solutions. 

Blackstone LaunchPad Coaches

Students are able to receive dedicated guidance from our renowned mentors.

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In Residence Coaches

Cameron Ford

Coach
  • Creativity & Innovation Expert
  • Edu-Tech Experience
  • Entrepreneur Champion
  • Competition Organizer

Cameron Marsh

Coach
  • Finance Expert
  • Business Growth Strategist
  • Market Discovery Expert
  • Business Operations Expert

Justin Buzzi

Coach
  • Social Media Marketing Expert
  • Web3 & NFT
  • Franchising Expert
  • Hit $10 Million in revenue

Cassandra Willard

Coach
  • Sports & Entertainment Lawyer
  • Nonprofit Law Expert
  • Intellectual Property Expert
  • Girl Scouts Board Member

Jesse Wolfe

Coach
  • Shark Tank Alumni
  • Food Industry Expert
  • Marketing Expert
  • Retail Sales Expert

Scott Vedder

Coach
  • Resume Expert
  • Interview Expert
  • Pitching
  • Business Development

Mike Lynch

Coach
  • Innovation & Entrepreneurship Professor
  • Serial Intrapreneur
  • Former BCG, NASCAR, ADT, VC

Elizabeth Trader

Coach
  • Computer Engineer
  • Fintech Entrepreneur
  • Sustainable Tech
  • Customer Discovery Expert

Rachel Flasterstein

Coach
  • Serial Entrepreneur
  • Founder of “The Tampa Mermaid”
  • SAAS Entrepreneur
  • Startup Weekend Winner

Mike Pape

Coach
  • Biotech Entrepreneur
  • Cofounder of Esperion Therapeutics
  • Entrepreneurship Professor
  • Problem Solving Expert

Kristen Unico

Coach
  • Analytical Skills
  • Marketing
  • Writing
  • Strategy

Patricio Cuesto

Coach
  • Leadership Development
  • Organizational Development
  • Corporate Consulting
  • Neurodiversity

 

Connect through the FL Network

Explore other events, competitions and more happening at our affiliated schools throughout Florida!

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Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Miami Dade College
Florida International University
University of Florida
Florida State University
University of North Florida