Startup Launch Weekend is a 54-hour long event in which participants experience what it takes to start their own company in a hands on scenario. Participants share their ideas, form teams, engage in customer development, and present their final pitch to a panel of judges. Throughout the weekend, teams work alongside mentors, faculty members, and local business executives who guide them through the journey. In addition, participants have the opportunity to hear from co-founders and CEOs who have successfully built their own companies. Participants must pay a $45 entry fee and compete for the opportunity to win $2000.