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Innovation Sprint Explained
What is an Innovation Sprint?
Launch Factory will be hosting an Innovation Sprint* – an event for the community to collaborate, ideate, and innovate in a fast-paced environment.
Through intensive brainstorming, networking, and workshopping, participants will craft innovative concepts within our theme and compete for a monetary award.
Don’t miss this opportunity for expert-led innovation workshops!
*This is a community event to learn and build ideas together, not to be confused with Launch Factory’s Founders in Residence program.
Theme: Deskless Workforce
Did you know that deskless workers constitute over 80% of the global workforce?
%
During the Innovation Sprint you will craft business ideas that empower and uplift the deskless workforce – individuals whose roles do not take place in an office (e.g. gig workers, trade workers, frontline workers etc.). You will develop innovative solutions that improve their work experiences, facilitate communication, and promote well-being. Whether through mobile apps for skill enhancement, platforms for remote collaboration, tools for health and safety management, or other viable solutions.
Who are you?
Innovator: You have an interest in innovation and startups. Bonus points for previous use of innovation frameworks, like lean startup.
Problem-Oriented: You want to investigate users pain points and build solutions to address them. You are customer-focused.
Relevant Experience: Preferably, but not required, you have experience in the target industry / theme or have obtained verifiable domain knowledge.
Ownership Mindset: You have a proactive ownership mindset and drive for personal growth. Others characterize you as a go-getter.
Curious: You have a desire to learn more about innovation – our workshops will provide exposure to design thinking principles.
Networker: You find value in surounding yourself and networking with a diverse group of innovators, experts, and mentors.
applications are open!
If any of the points above sound like you then we encourage you to register for the Innovation Sprint!
You can apply as an individidual or with a team. If you have any questions feel free to reach out to us at info@launchfactory.com.
Innovation Sprint
Ideate and
Innovate with
Launch Factory
We’re focused on business concepts within our theme that address real market needs, are feasible and scalable, and leverage current trends.
Whether your idea targets B2B or B2C, business sustainability and market viability are key.
Admittance into the Innovation Sprint happens on a rolling basis, apply early to increase your chance of acceptance.
why you should join
1. Innovation Workshops
Expand your knowledge on what makes a good startup idea through various expert-led workshops on innovation and design thinking methodologies.
2. Networking
Connect with like-minded individuals, industry experts, and potential collaborators for your future projects.
3. Awards
Compete for cash prizes and recognition for your innovative ideas. $5000 in cash will be distributed to the top three teams / ideas.
4. Unleash Your Creativity
Put your skills to the test and unleash your creativity in a supportive and dynamic environment.
5. Impact
Make a difference by working on concepts that have the potential to address real-world challenges in a big way.
6. Fun
Enjoy a fun and engaging atmosphere filled with energy and excitement!
Admittance into the Innovation Sprint happens on a rolling basis, apply early to increase your chance of acceptance.
meet our workshop experts
Misti Cain
Investor at Techstars | Founder | Business Reality Show Host
Bernie Schroeder
UCSD and SDSU Lecturer | Brand Strategist | Author
James previously served as the Chief of Staff for the Technology Engineering division of Google’s Hardware Product Area.
Prior to Google, James held engineering, program management, and business analyst positions at ION Geophysical and Chevron Technology Ventures.
James holds three degrees: an MBA from Rice University, an M.S. in Predictive Analytics from Northwestern University, and a B.S. in Multidisciplinary Studies – Physics from the University of Oklahoma.
Alessandro previously held roles as an operator and founder in enterprise software and consumer goods start-ups.
He currently leads our ideation efforts and due diligence into new business opportunities.
Alessandro graduated from Stanford Graduate Business School in 2018. He also holds a Master’s Degree in International Management (Universitá Cattolica del Sacro Cuore) and a B.S. in Business Administration and Information Systems (Northeastern University).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Innovation Sprint a hackathon?
Mostly yes! However, traditional hackathons tend to focus more on building a product. The Innovation Sprint will result in business ideas and why they may be valid (problem, customers, market forces, etc.).
That said, product building will still be necessary and so the Innovation Sprint will require all types of experience.
Do I need to have an idea to apply?
No. Most won’t, and those who do may even see their concept shift throughout the day.
You will have the opportunity to figure out the concept you want to pursue on the day of the event. You will also have the opportunity to join someone elses team should you both agree.
Can I be a one-person team?
Yes! You will have the opportunity to meet others and join their team at the kickoff event, but should you want to participate yourself, you are more than welcome.
I don't have experience in Deskless Workforce, should I still apply?
Absolutely! While it is advantageous to have experience with this market, it is not a hard requirement.
If you have interest in innovation, are able to think critically about business problems, and enjoy learning more, then this event is for you. Apply Now
Deskless Workforce seems like a broad segment, what are the bounds really?
The bounds are wide. The Deskless Workforce segment can refer to restaurant workers, healthcare professionals, trade workers, fitness professionals, and more…
Direct experience related to a Deskless Workforce sub-segment is not required. Any insight will be helpful and there will also be an opportunity to team up just prior to the event.
If you have interest in innovation, are able to think critically about business problems, and enjoy learning more, then this event is for you. Apply Now
Does Launch Factory retain the rights to work submitted during the Innovation Sprint?
Yes. Launch Factory reserves the right to reuse, modify, and adapt any work submitted by participants during the event. Participants should not share information they feel is proprietary to them during the Innovation Sprint.
Learn more from our Terms and Conditions.
How does the Innovation Sprint relate to Launch Factory's other endeavors?
The Innovation Sprint is separate from the Founders in Residence program. This is an event for the community to learn, network, and innovate.
Other...
Still have a question feel free to email us at info@launchfactory.com
Looking to be a sponsor of this event? Reach out to us at info@launchfactory.com.