*Note: This year, Fellows may choose to execute the Project Invent program on a full-year or Spring-semester timeline. The dates below represent our full-year program.
Spring Fellows will receive a mirrored program experience, kicking off in January of 2024, and culminating in May.
Fellows Apply
March- May 2023
Fellowship applications will be accepted through May 31,2023. All applicants will receive an update within three weeks of submission. Accepted applicants will be invited to attend a 1-hour orientation to meet their new cohort members and receive detailed next steps.
Summer Institute
July 2023
Fellows will choose to attend one of our scheduled Summer Institute sessions. Summer Institute is a virtual, 4-day experience where Fellows experience a rapid learning journey and gain foundational skills in design thinking, technology, and community partnership. At the end of the experience, Fellows collaborate with Project Invent staff to design a unique and detailed plan for program launch.
Recruitment: Students & Community Partners
July- september 2023
After Summer Institute, Fellows will build their rosters of students and Community Partners.
Our Fellows typically work with anywhere between 5-40 students per cycle with teams consisting of 4-8 students.
Fellows will receive support from Project Invent staff in identifying inspiring community members to collaborate with their students.
LEARN MORE ABOUT COMMUNITY PARTNERS →
Kickoff
October 2023
Fellows and students from across the country will gather together for a virtual kickoff event to mark the start of their journey. After kickoff, students will begin interviewing their Community Partners and ideating design concepts.
Idea Review
December 2023
Students will present their top design concepts to a panel of volunteers. Panelists will share perspectives from the world of design, engineering, and entrepreneurship to help students establish a prototyping roadmap.
After Idea Review, students will start to build, turning their ideas into real, physical prototypes.
Tech Office Hours & Pitch Coaching
February- March 2024
As students travel through the building phase and prepare for Demo Day X, they will receive support from various industry professionals.
For tech assistance (related to software or hardware), Project Invent offers “Tech Office Hours” hosted by volunteer engineers.
To help students design and perfect their pitch presentations, volunteer “Pitch Coaches” are assigned to all student teams in the weeks leading up to Demo Day X.
Demo Day X Events
April- May 2024
The Project Invent experience culminates in Demo Day X events. Student teams will be invited to regional Demo Day X events (virtual or in-person). Teams will pitch their inventions to a panel of industry experts for a chance to win funding.