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.

Who?

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

Individual students and employees can receive microgrants through their institution.

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 the first round of exceptional microgrant and grant awardees here.

What?

This flexible early-stage capital, primarily in the form of non-dilutive grants, ranges from less than $3,000 to $50,000. This capital is designed to bridge foundational gaps, supporting you on your journey to the next steps.

How and When?

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

The last deadline for funding for ventures was Monday, May 6, 2024. We do not have the next deadline set. To ensure you don’t miss out, the following groups are invited to register for future funding opportunities.