Exciting Venture Funding Opportunity for CSU Students

Are you ready to turn your innovative ideas into impactful ventures? Colorado State University’s Petersen Family Student Venture Accelerator (SVA) invites CSU students to participate in an 8-week transformative experience (May 18 – July 31, 2026) designed to empower aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools, mentorship, and funding to succeed.

Selected venture teams can receive up to $5,000+ in funding to support early-stage operations and go-to-market strategies + free room & board on CSU’s campus in Fort Collins, Colorado.

Program Overview

The SVA blends in-person and virtual sessions to provide both flexibility and hands-on engagement:

  • May 18 – June 12: In-Person | Entrepreneurial Leadership Intensive Kickstart your journey with leadership development, mentor connections, and team-building activities in a collaborative environment that fosters community.
  • June 15 – July 31: Virtual Mentorship Advance your business ideas through weekly check-ins, one-on-one coaching, and venture development sessions—all from the comfort of your home.
Why Participate?
  • Gain access to $5,000+ in funding to fuel your venture.
  • Learn from expert mentors and entrepreneurial leaders.
  • Join a supportive cohort of peers, all committed to innovation and impact.
  • Embrace values of leadership, excellence, and compassion while building a sustainable, impactful venture.
  • Become part of the CSU Community with two weeks on-campus and free room + board.
Apply Today!

Application Deadline: March 22, 2026, at 11:59 PM

Questions? Email us at [email protected]

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to grow as an entrepreneur and leader

2026 Petersen Family Student Venture Accelerator Application

Colorado State University Venture Accelerator is open to all current CSU undergrad and graduate students as well as CSU Alumni that have graduated within the last year. This program will take place in-person from May 18 - June 12 and wrap up with virtual programming and mentorship from June 15 - July 31.

Personal Information

Name(Required)
Are you a...
(Not a student or alum? You can still utilize CSU support to launch your business. Learn more at innovate.colostate.edu)
Gender(Required)

Company Basics

Is your business incorporated?(Required)
Incorporation is required before program start, we will host a workshop to get you setup!
Max. file size: 20 MB.

Venture Team

Entrepreneurial Experience

Have you participated in Venture Validator?(Required)
Completion of Venture Validator is required to be accepted
Have you participated in a formal pitch competition or otherwise pitched your business to an external audience?(Required)

Company Details

Max. file size: 20 MB.

Accelerator