Each entry (individual or team) has 6 months to complete the Stage 1 Start-Up Track, plus another 6 months to complete the Stage 2 VC Accelerator.
Each entry must complete all 12 milestones within 12 months, and we anticipate that many teams will complete the full course at an even faster clip.
Entries must make consistent progress on each of the 12 Milestones – they must move on, or they will be asked to move out of the program in order to concentrate resources on the most qualified entries.
The Venture Quest’s accelerated, milestone-intensive format reflects the hyper competitive dynamics of the Internet marketspace. If a venture cannot get traction within 12 months, it is unlikely it will be able to compete in a longer timeframe.
Entries that complete the first 5 Milestones receive a Professional Start-Up Certificate from the University of New Haven, and are eligible for consideration to Milestone 6 – Seed Investment.