The Launch Lab is the University of Rhode Island’s hub for student innovation, entrepreneurship, and applied learning. We support students from all majors as they develop ideas, explore opportunities, and move concepts toward real-world impact through mentoring, workshops, and experiential programs. Whether students are building a business, strengthening a personal brand, or testing a new idea, the Launch Lab provides the guidance, community, and resources needed to take meaningful next steps.

Business Mentoring
Students receive one-on-one and small-group mentoring led by experienced innovation coaches, faculty, and industry professionals with decades of background in business. Mentoring focuses on idea development, problem framing, project execution, and decision-making—helping students translate ambition into action.

Workshops & Networking
The Launch Lab hosts skill-building workshops, guest talks, and networking events that connect students with peers, mentors, alumni, and professionals. These experiences emphasize practical learning, exposure to real-world challenges, and relationship-building within and beyond URI.

Credit & Funding Opportunities
Launch Lab initiatives are integrated into academic coursework and funding pathways that allow students to earn credit, access project resources, and apply classroom learning to active ventures. Students can engage through courses, independent projects, and grant-supported experimentation.

Athletics Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL)
The Launch Lab plays a key role in supporting URI student-athletes navigating Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. Through mentoring, workshops, and project support, student-athletes explore personal branding, entrepreneurship, and media strategies aligned with long-term professional development.

College of Business
Launch Lab serves as an experiential learning environment for College of Business courses including INE 249 and INE 349. Students use the lab to develop, test, and present venture ideas, applying entrepreneurial frameworks through hands-on projects supported by mentors and real feedback.

AI & Quantum Computing Events
The Launch Lab hosts an ongoing panel and discussion series focused on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum innovation. These events bring together faculty experts, students, and external speakers to explore future-facing technologies, ethical considerations, and interdisciplinary applications.