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!

Join the rollercoaster this spring!

Spring 2025

  • Applications Open: Monday, Feb. 10
  • Informational: Wednesday, Feb. 12 | 5-6 p.m.
  • Applications Close: Sunday, Feb. 23 [EXTENDED through Wednesday, Feb 26]
  • Pre-Coaster: Thursday, March 20
  • Startup Fast Pass: Friday, March 21-Sunday, March 23

Applications for spring 2025 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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