The Challenge Studio is an intensive 9-month program that forms and supports a team of entrepreneurs as they solve challenge areas outlined in the City of Austin’s Strategic Direction 2023 plan. The goal of the Challenge Studio is to create a new business whose products and services result in a local public benefit. The City of Austin will provide workspace, customized learning programs, coaching and technical assistance. 

Entrepreneurs will be chosen for each challenge area:

  • Food Security and Nutrition - Improve access to fresh, nutritious food in areas of Austin experiencing the highest rates of food insecurity
  • Environmental Quality - Zero Waste by 2040 in Austin means keeping at least 90% of discarded materials out of the landfill

 

Incubator Assistance

  • Incubation for 9-months with access to 900 ft2 of workspace
  • $10,000 in prototyping and seed funding*
  • Legal technical assistance valued at $2,500
  • Training program focused on new team formation, design thinking, and business fundamentals
  • Access to mentors, business coaches and subject matter experts

 

Who Should Apply?

  1. Passion for the specified challenge area
  2. Relevant experience - knowledge, skills and abilities that might be leveraged to create a solution to the challenge
  3. Growth mindset - openness and willingness to learn new things
  4. Entrepreneurial intent - a deep commitment to starting and growing a business in Austin
  5. Resilience and perseverance
  6. Commitment to a 9 month program

 

Application Process

Applications are closed.