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Launch Lab Programs

Launch Lab is Â鶹Çø’s new entrepreneurship initiative, designed to empower students, faculty and the broader community to explore, develop and launch innovative business ideas. By combining mentorship, hands-on learning opportunities and access to regional resources, Launch Â鶹Çø fosters an entrepreneurial mindset while providing practical tools to turn ideas into action. The initiative supports startups, creative projects and community collaborations, reinforcing Â鶹Çø’s commitment to innovation and economic development in Oregon and beyond.

Business Mentoring

Overview:

Supported by the McMinnville Area Community Foundation, this program pairs Â鶹Çø faculty and graduate students with local entrepreneurs to provide mentorship, guidance, and strategic support. Designed to foster growth and innovation, the program helps entrepreneurs tackle specific challenges and refine their business strategies. 

Program Details: 

• Duration: 10–12 weeks. 
• Session Format: Flexible, weekly or bi-weekly one-on-one sessions.  Entrepreneurs receive 12 hours of personalized consulting time.
• Focus Areas: Business planning, strategic development, financial planning, and operational efficiency.

Mentorship Structure: 

• Mentors: Two faculty members and two graduate students. 
• Pairing: Each entrepreneur is paired with a faculty mentor and a graduate student for personalized guidance. 

Eligibility: 

• Open to local entrepreneurs in early-stage or scaling businesses, with priority given to those demonstrating high growth potential or unique challenges. 

Application Process: 

• Entrepreneurs interested in this program are asked to respond to the following three questions in a brief email to gateway@linfield.edu.

1. What specific business challenges or objectives are you seeking mentorship for during the 10–12 week program?
2. Can you describe your business’s current stage and any recent milestones or achievements?
3. What specific skills, strategies, or areas of your business do you hope to focus on and improve during the program?

• Applicants will be selected based on business potential and alignment with mentor expertise. 

Key Dates 

• Jan 21st, 2025 - Applications open
• Feb 21st, 2025 - Applications due
• Mar 1st, 2025 - Successful applicants are contacted back
• May 15th, 2025 - Mentoring sessions conclude