Special Topics (495-0-3)

Topic

NUvention: Launch

Instructors

Hayes Ferguson

Eduardo Acuna

Meeting Info

Ford Hive Rm 2350: Tues 6:00PM - 8:50PM

Overview of class

NUvention: Launch is an experiential course for student teams that have a preliminary value proposition and have performed initial customer discover and business model development. Student teams from NUvention courses or with previous work experience from the Garage are perfectly positioned to take advantage of this course's offerings, though student teams not associated with either are also welcome to apply. A minimum of two students from each startup team must enroll in the class.



The goals of this course are to further develop:

Founding Team Dynamics- through exercises and engagement that strengthen communication, collaboration, and ethical leadership
Company Culture- with a focus on mission, vision, values, internal/external positioning, and brand
Financial Acumen- via a deep dive into the startup's financial statements and forecasts
Market and Customer Discovery- using hands-on iteration of fundamental entrepreneurial processes to strengthen value propositions, business models, and minimum value products (MVPs) with an eye towards meaningful customer engagement
Entrepreneurial Muscle - by exercising presentation/pitching skills, networking, and resource utilization to leverage the strength of NU's entrepreneurial eco-system

Registration Requirements

This course requires an application. Applications for the Spring 2026 section of ENTREP 495: NUvention: Launch are open. The priority deadline to apply for this class is February 13th, 2026, any applications received after this point will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Questions can be directed to farley@northwestern.edu. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSevj3F_jdbggGmczp8WpofffSem8NCS5sf_z_2sPqa1-jYnDg/viewform

Class Materials (Required)

TBD

Class Notes

NUvention: Launch Course Enrollment Instructions

To enroll in NUvention: Launch, you must request permission by email. Send an email to farley@northwestern.edu that includes a description of your startup, your motivation for taking the course, and names of Northwestern faculty or staff who can serve as references.


At least two members from each startup team must enroll in the class. Enrollment is not automatic and requires approval. Please note that your team cannot participate unless the minimum enrollment requirement is met.

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: During pre-registration week enrollment in this class is restricted to only Entrepreneurship Minors. Other students may register during the regular registration period.
Add Consent: Department Consent Required