Startup
Fast Pass

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Feel the rush of a weekend to launch!

Startup Fast Pass is a fast-paced introduction to the basic principles of how to transform a business idea into an actual startup in just one weekend. The program has been carefully designed to be highly experiential providing participants a real feel for the roller-coaster ride that is launching a startup. At the beginning of the weekend, students form teams around an idea. Over the course of the weekend each team will develop a business model, market and customer analysis, and final presentation. Throughout the weekend, a student-led team and experienced mentors will help participants navigate the process of launching a business under extreme constraints. By Sunday afternoon each team will present their startup to a Pro Panel of successful entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals.

This semester’s Startup Fast Pass is proudly planned and presented by student leaders of the McFerrin Experience Team!

*Previously known as 3 Day Startup

Join the rollercoaster this fall!

Fall 2024

  • Applications Open: Friday, Aug. 30
  • Informational: Wednesday, Sept. 11 | 5-6:30 p.m.
  • Applications Close: Friday, Sept. 13 EXTENDED THROUGH SUNDAY, SEPT. 15
  • Pre-Coaster: Thursday, Oct. 17
  • Startup Fast Pass: Friday, Oct. 18-Sunday, Oct. 20

Applications for the fall 2024 Startup Fast Pass are now closed.

Who Can Participate?

Only currently enrolled students at Texas A&M University may participate in Startup Fast Pass. To be considered for Startup Fast Pass students must submit an online application and be selected as a participant. Students must apply as individuals and can apply with or without a business idea. Applicants are not evaluated based on their business ideas or lack thereof. Several days prior to the weekend event, selected students participate in a 2-hour “pre-coaster” which gives them a chance to meet each other and prepare them for what to expect during the weekend.

  • Any currently enrolled Texas A&M University student
  • All majors are invited and encouraged to apply
  • Students of all classifications, including graduate and professional students

Mentors are an integral part of the Startup Fast Pass experience. As a mentor you will help teams think through vital aspects of their venture such as target customer, branding, market viability, product viability and more. Most importantly you’ll serve as a sounding board for ideas and will use your knowledge and experience to help students avoid common pitfalls when launching a business.

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