Batten Institute

Batten Institute - Ventures - VP(x)²

VP(x)² - Venturing Project Squared

VP(x)2, (Venturing Project Squared) provides a goal-oriented, guided-learning summer program for student founders of innovative ventures. VP(x)² is an initiative of the Batten Institute at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, which has sponsored an early-stage, summer incubator program for more than twenty years. 

VP(x)2 is suited to founders who are at the stage of testing, iterating, and validating solutions to perceived problems. Combining the best features of the former i.Lab incubator’s intensive summer experience and the new VP(x) independent study program, VP(x)2 offers an immersive experience for founders with a passion for addressing problems with meaningful solutions. At a minimum, founders need some version of the solution, or minimum viable product (MVP).

Preview the 2021 VP(x)2 syllabus.

View the venture profiles of our 2021 cohort.

VP(x)² Benefits:

  • Up to $10,000 in grant funding for each venture
  • Core workshops, online resources and special events
  • Legal support
  • Mentorship and advisory support from experienced founders and industry experts;
  • Access to community and connections
  • Immersion in the principles of effectuation
  • Eligibility to apply for the Kathryne Carr Award for Entrepreneurial Excellence


VP(x)² Program Expectations:

  • Minimum viable product/service (an “MVP” or version 1) and consistent product/service development for the duration of the program
  • Continued focus on iterating the product/service
  • Progress on plan to accomplish goals, outcomes, and deliverables
  • Attendance at key events and workshops
  • Regular check-ins and participation
  • Being a positive and contributing member of and resource to the cohort.

Note: Teams without current UVA students should consider the Catalyst Accelerator Program.


VP(x)² 2021 Timeline:

  • 15 December 2020: eCup early access interviews
  • 20 January 2021: Online application available
  • 25 Jan, 27 Jan, 5 Feb: Program overview and application workshops (attendance at one is required for application)
  • 11 February 2021: Application submission deadline
  • 17 February 2021: Applicant interviews with VP(x) staff. Backup date - 19 Feb
  • March through May: (U)nderstand phase, including legal support, MVP finalization, mentor engagement and (V)alidate phase plan
  • June through early August: (V)alidate phase, including workshops, check-ins, one-on-one sessions, and focused MVP iteration
  • September through November: (A)ccelerate phase, with on-going check-ins and engagement