Turn your idea into a strong, customer-ready business
Over five months, this program helps you move from concept to launch by building the core foundations needed to bring your business to life.
Through a hybrid format of online and in-person evening sessions, you’ll experience a holistic program that combines classroom learning, 1:1 coaching and customized services to help you take action.
By the end of the program, you’ll reach key business milestones, build essential infrastructure, and be well-positioned to launch and grow. The expected time commitment is just 10+ hours per month over five months.
Program Benefits & Experience
As a Bootcamp cohort member, you'll:
- Participate in weekly evening sessions with expert-led instruction
- Build essential business foundations, including customer insights, brand identity, financials, business structure, and a strong online presence
- Participate in six personalized mentor sessions to directly apply course concepts to your business.
- Develop a Business Model Canvas to clearly define and validate your business model
- Create a compelling, investor-ready pitch deck that communicates your vision and value
- Access customized startup services to help bring your business to life
Join the Next Bootcamp Cohort
Our Winter 2026 Bootcamp Cohort is currently underway. If you’re interested in participating in a future cohort, registration for the Fall 2026 Bootcamp (starting September 8, 2026) will open in May 2026.
Your first step to get started with our next Bootcamp is to register to join the EC. Our programs, events and services are free for current WCC students and Washtenaw County residents. Out-of-county residents are welcome to join with a one-time, lifetime fee of $25.
- Application Deadline: June 15, 2026
- Fall 2026 Cohort Start Date: September 8, 2026
Bootcamp participants must be 18 years or older to join. Applicants must be new to Entrepreneurship Center programming; individuals who have participated in prior grant-funded programs are not eligible. Current WCC employees (part-time or full-time) are not eligible.
What happens after you register?
After you register to join the EC, you'll:
- Be contacted for a 1:1 Bootcamp introductory interview
- Advance to a second round 1:1 interview
- Submit a formal program application
- Be selected to attend
- Note: This is a competitive program. Rules apply and preference will be given to new participants.
- Complete program forms
- Join the Fall 2026 Bootcamp cohort