First Year's Guide to Startups at UVA
You just arrived at UVA. You've got ideas, energy, and four years ahead of you. Here's how to make the most of it — starting today.
Important Dates
- SepFall
E-Cup Concept Competition
Submit your startup idea and compete for one of 20 finalist spots at the Concept Final. Open to all students — no experience needed.
Learn more → - Anytime
Talk to a Foundry advisor
Bring an idea, a question, or nothing yet. Tell us what you are working on and a person writes back to find a time. Free, at any stage.
Reach an advisor →
Why Start in Your First Year?
Most successful UVA founders didn't wait. Here's why the sooner you start, the better.
You Have More Time Than You Think
First year is actually the best time to explore. Before internship pressure ramps up, you have freedom to experiment, attend events, and meet people without a packed schedule.
Build Your Network Early
The founders, advisors, and collaborators you meet now become your co-founders, your first customers, and your references years down the line. Start building those relationships today.
Early Traction is Real
Many successful UVA startups were born in someone's first or second year. Getting reps in early means you'll be miles ahead by the time competitions and accelerators open up.
Getting Started: 4 Steps
Don't know where to begin? Follow this path — it works for every background and idea.
Step 1: Explore Ideas
Not sure what to build? Browse the Idea Library and Glossary to understand the startup world and spark your thinking.
Step 2: Meet the Community
Show up to events, join a workshop, or just drop by The Foundry space. The community is how everything starts.
Step 3: Get Advising
Book a free one-on-one session with a venture advisor. Bring any idea — half-baked is fine. They've heard it all.
Step 4: Apply to Programs
Ready to go deeper? Apply to competitions, accelerators, and analyst programs that open doors and build real skills.
Quick Wins for Week One
Four things you can do right now — no application, no commitment, no prior experience needed.
Resource Library
Templates, guides, and tools curated for early-stage founders.
Browse Resources →Startup Glossary
Learn the lingo — from MVP to cap table, decoded in plain English.
Open Glossary →Startup Directory
See real UVA-connected startups and the founders behind them.
Explore Startups →Events Calendar
Workshops, pitch nights, and mixers happening right now.
See All Events →What's Happening This Week
Real events, pulled live. Show up to one and you'll be glad you did.
Foundry Idea Fest
Friday Founders Around Grounds
Ready to get started? Come meet us.
Stop by The Foundry, book a free advising session, or just say hello. There's no barrier to entry — only open doors.