About this programme
The Summer Founders Program is run by Invent Penn State's Happy Valley LaunchBox, powered by PNC Bank. It gives student-founded teams a $15,000 equity-free grant and a 13-week, full-time summer accelerator based in State College, Pennsylvania.
The program accepts 6 teams a year and ends with a Startup Showcase. Participants get weekly coaching, access to more than 100 advisers, 24/7 facility access, software tools, and intern funding opportunities.
How it works
Each accepted team receives a $15,000 grant. The program is explicit that it does not take ownership or equity in the business or nonprofit.
Teams commit to working full-time, 40 hours a week, on their venture for the full 13 weeks, based in State College, PA. Remote work from a founder's hometown is not permitted.
The summer culminates in a single Startup Showcase where teams present their progress.
Who can apply
At least one founder must be a Penn State student in good standing at the time of application, from any campus including World Campus, or a senior scheduled to graduate that May.
The startup must be a US-based business.
Founders must commit to working full-time on the venture for the entire program and must be physically based in State College, PA.
How to apply
- Confirm at least one founder is a current Penn State student (any campus) or a May graduating senior.
- Prepare to commit full-time, in person, in State College, PA for the 13-week program.
- Contact the program (Heather Winfield, hbw11@psu.edu) or use the site's contact form for application details.
Frequently asked
Does the Summer Founders Program take equity?
No. It's an equity-free grant; the program states it does not take ownership or equity in your business or nonprofit.
Do I need to be graduating, or can I be any Penn State student?
Any Penn State student in good standing, from any campus including World Campus, is eligible, and seniors scheduled to graduate in May also qualify.
Can I do the program remotely?
No. Teams must work full-time in State College, PA; the program does not permit remote work from a founder's hometown.
How many teams get in each year?
6 teams are accepted annually for the 13-week program.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.