Welcome to the University System of Maryland (USM) Launch Fund – your gateway to early-stage support for building, creating, and innovating. We’re here to connect you with resources, mentorship, and capital, bridging critical gaps in your startup journey. Administered by the USM Office of Research and Economic Development, and collectively led by all USM institutions, our program proudly supports a diverse range of USM-affiliated ventures, both for-profit and non-profit.

This flexible early capital, in the form of awards/grants, ranges from less than $3,000 to $15,000. This capital is designed to bridge foundational gaps, supporting you on your journey to the next steps.

The Launch Fund is one part of the USM Innovation Collective — the many resources across USM that support innovators and entrepreneurs.  

Who We Support

The Maryland Launch Fund is tailored for students, employees, and ventures linked to USM institutions, which are these universities and regional higher education centers across Maryland.

Individual students and employees can receive microgrants through their institution. Microgrant funding varies by institution, so students and employees should check in with an institutional representative for the latest on those opportunities.

Ventures can receive grants if they are founded by students, faculty, employees, or alumni, leveraging USM intellectual property, or physically located in a USM research park, incubator, or RISE Zone. Please note that participation in a program such as the USG Equity Incubator, the Towson StarTUp Accelerator, or the SU Shore Hatchery Competition does not provide eligibility. All ventures are required to have a substantial portion of their manufacturing, service, research and development, or office space located in Maryland.

You can explore our exceptional portfolio here.

Grants for Ventures 

The USM Launch Fund provides grants to for-profit and non-profit ventures. Applicants who have not yet formed a venture can apply but must form an entity to receive funds. The most recent deadline has passed, and notifications were sent on or before August 8. There is not currently another deadline set. 

Support for Students, Startups, and Maryland Employers: Launch Fund Nexus

Supported and coordinated by the Launch Fund, Launch Fund Nexus connects (1) startups with (2) students drawn from across those 170,000 enrolled at the 12 institutions and 3 regional higher education centers of the University System of Maryland (USM) across the State of Maryland and (3) industry experts. It creates benefits for all three stakeholders while contributing to Maryland’s long-term strategic vision for inclusive economic growth through the creation of supporting infrastructure assets, resources, and a diverse workforce that builds the strengths of Maryland’s economy. Learn more about Launch Fund Nexus here.