STUDENT FOUNDER FEST 2024
The LaunchPad at UT Austin is hosting our 2nd Annual Student Founder Fest on March 7 from 5-10PM, a SXSW-inspired event that celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit within UT and the Austin small business community.
đź“… Date: Thursday, March 7, 2024
đź“Ť Location: Victory Lap near West Campus
5:00 PM – Doors Open
5:30 PM – MakerLaunch Pitch Competition Begins
7:00 PM – Keynote Speaker during judge deliberations
7:25 PM – Pitch Comp Awards Ceremony
7:30 PM – Music Festival Begins
10:00 PM – Doors Close
MAKERLAUNCH PITCH COMPETITION
The “MakerLaunch Pitch Competition” celebrates the spirit of creation, innovation, and entrepreneurial drive within the maker community. This event aims to provide a launchpad for budding and established founders in non-tech sectors, and is designed to spotlight the ingenuity, craftsmanship, and inventive spirit of makers.
MakerLaunch offers a platform for artisans, creators, and inventors to pitch their ideas, products, or services to a panel of judges. The panel will be made up of UT alumni who are established business owners in Central Texas. Rolling applications open through February 25 at 11:59PM.
Competition Prizes:
First Place: $3,000
Second Place: $1,500
Third Place: $500
STUDENT VENDOR MARKET
The “Student Vendor Market” is an opportunity for student founders to display and sell products from their own businesses, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and engage with a wider audience. Whether you’re a seasoned seller or just starting out, this event is the perfect platform to bring your products to the forefront.
The average vendor made $900 at last year’s market! Selected vendors will be asked to pay a $35 fee, and provide their own table and chair for the event. Applications open through February 25 at 11:59PM. Apply to be a vendor here.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Gain valuable insights from our keynote speaker, who is an experienced entrepreneur and UT student (to be announced).
MUSIC FESTIVAL
Presented by Frothing Fest, headlining the festival will be West 22nd and midwxst.
TICKETS
Student & Faculty/Staff Admission (EID required): Free! Donation to The LaunchPad, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, optional.
Community Admission: $20
Student Founder Fest is an all ages event. Alumni and community members are welcome to attend with a purchased ticket. All attendees are required to register through Eventbrite in advance or at the door.
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
Student Founder Fest includes five signature events designed to help students, staff, alumni, and the Austin community:
- Increase brand awareness for founders at UT Austin and in the Austin community.
- Provide a platform for student and alumni business owners to sell their goods and services to earn money.
- Celebrate creative innovation on campus and beyond.
- Foster peer-to-peer inspiration while cultivating community.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Austin City Listings
D1 Approved
THANK YOU TO OUR ALUMNI PITCH COMP JUDGES
Elaine Garza, founder of Giant Noise, an influential public relations firm known for its dynamic approach to communication and its ability to elevate brands in the public eye.
Patrick and Erika Lai, the innovative minds behind Game Theory Restaurant and Bar, a unique establishment that combines the joy of board games with a sophisticated dining experience, fostering community and connection.
Lamar Sellers, founders of The Shady Llama, a beloved outdoor bar and llama sanctuary that offers a tranquil escape with breathtaking hill country views, emphasizing sustainability and the joy of the natural world.
Kevin Long, founder of Outmore Living, a company creating heated outdoor furniture that blends luxury, comfort, warmth and technology to create an outdoor living experience like never before.