KickStart VT
Have an idea for a new venture? Looking for feedback—or even seed funding—to bring it to life?
KickStart VT is designed for aspiring student entrepreneurs at Virginia Tech who are developing early-stage concepts. At these events, you’ll connect with peers and get feedback from seasoned professionals. At each KickStart, you will also have the opportunity to walk away with a $500 equity-free scholarship to help move your idea forward.
Who can apply?
All Virginia Tech students—regardless of major, background, or academic college—are welcome to apply.
Why participate?
Hear what other students are building
Get direct, constructive feedback from experienced professionals
Receive equity-free milestone funding to keep developing your idea
How it works
Apply online via Startup Tree. A selection committee from the Apex Center will review submissions and invite a subset of students to present.
Present your concept. Share your idea at a KickStart event and get real-time feedback from industry professionals.
Receive funding + support. This isn’t a winner-takes-all pitch competition—it’s milestone funding designed to help you keep making progress. Judges will decide which of the top teams will receive a scholarship to help advance their idea. Up to $500 is awarded at each event.
Funding & Support
Up to $500 in scholarship awards is reserved for each KickStart. Judges will determine awards based on the presented needs and stage.
Funding is managed by faculty from the Apex Center for Entrepreneurs
Beyond funding, selected teams can:
Book mentorship hours with Apex faculty
Get guidance on next steps and strategy
Join peer “huddles” to collaborate and refine your ideas
Ready to kickstart your venture? Apply on Startup Tree today!
KickStart FAQs
Q: What if my application was not accepted to a KickStart and I want to reapply?
A: Please reapply, make sure to adjust your application to meet the requirements. If you resubmit the same materials, your application will not be accepted.
Q: I presented at a previous KickStart and did not receive any funding. When can I reapply?
A: Teams must wait at least one KickStart cycle before reapplying. This allows time to use Apex Center resources—such as office hours—to further develop your venture. For example, if you present in September, you are not eligible for the October event but may reapply for the November KickStart.
When reapplying, your new video submission must highlight a milestone your team has achieved since your last presentation. Please note: applications and videos that have not been updated will not be accepted.
Q: I received funding at KickStart and would like to reapply.
A: Please see the answer above. The same requirements apply if you received funding.
Q. How will I receive my funding?
A: Kickstart awards are processed at the end of each semester and added to your student account. If you have any outstanding balance (e.g., tuition payment plans, parking tickets, or any remaining charges), the award funds will automatically be applied to those amounts as soon as they post. Please let the Apex Team know if you currently have any balance on your account.
Questions?
Email us: apexcenter@vt.edu
Visit us: Apex Center Space at
Apex Center for Entrepreneurs Downtown Space (432 N. Main Street, Suite 200, Blacksburg, VA)
Data and Decision Science Building Room 368 (727 Prices Fork Rd, Blacksburg, VA 2406, )
