Frequently Asked Questions

The ZIP Launchpad is an on campus startup incubator that helps students, staff, faculty, and researchers at San Diego State University launch startup companies.

Degree-seeking undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, staff, and researchers at SDSU.

Teams in the program are required to have one SDSU student, faculty, staff, or researcher as a core member of their team. Core members actively participate in the day to day activities of the team and can attend all ZIP meetings and events on behalf of the team. Students from all majors are welcome at ZIP Launchpad.

$0 and no.

The ZIP Launchpad is donor funded by supporters who want to see the next wave of business leaders at San Diego State University. This allows us to offer advising, mentorship, resources, lab space, and funding opportunities at no cost to the teams involved, and ZIP Launchpad doesn't take any equity.

*Special cases may apply

All majors are welcome. Many of our best companies come from teams of diverse backgrounds and skillsets and we believe that innovation can occur anywhere.

The ZIP Launchpad's programming lasts 2-6 semesters depending on how far a team/individual advances in the program. We welcome students to apply at any time during their college career; however, we highly recommend applying sooner than later. The longer you are able to participate in the ZIP Launchpad, the more value you will gain. The best time to start is right now so apply today!

It is strongly encouraged to apply with a team, however solo founders are welcome too.

No, most teams start with just an idea.

Sign up for Idea Office Hours to get help from ZIP staff and attend an Application Workshop.

The Fall 2026 application process is changing so please fill out our interest form on the "Apply Page" to be notified of next steps.

Events, workshops, and paid internships.

While the ZIP Launchpad programming requires 3-6 hours per week, many of our program participants commit more time voluntarily to launch their startup company. The more time a participant commits to their startup in ZIP Launchpad, the more value they gain from the program.

Once accepted, participants have the ability to access different resources as they advance in the ZIP Launchpad program. The resources include up to $3,000 in funding, legal guidance, access to over a dozen domain experts, an adviser, 24-7 workspace, as well as engineering and prototyping services.

All participants in the ZIP Launchpad program are required to sign a participation agreement that addresses these concerns. If you have any worries about intellectual property and are a participant in the ZIP Launchpad, we have attorneys who can advise you on what you are able to share. Please note that as a participant in the ZIP Launchpad, you will be expected to pitch your idea in front of peers, advisers, potential investors and community entrepreneurs. If this makes you uncomfortable, the ZIP Launchpad program may not be a great fit for you.