Who We Support

• For Students and Employees — no venture needed!: You 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. Students can also participate in the Launch Fund Nexus program.
• For Ventures: They 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. Startups can also participate in the Launch Fund Nexus program. 

How We Support

• Grants for Ventures: For-profit and non-profit ventures are eligible for grants up to $15k. Applicants who have not yet formed a venture can apply but must form an entity to receive funds. The most recent deadline has passed. There is not currently another deadline set, but be sure to register to be notified of another opportunity.
• Support for Students, Startups, and Maryland Employers via 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.