Innovation Challenge
Build a Business Model That Actually Works
Participation in this 7-week Innovation Challenge is fully funded and available at no cost to eligible Western Kentucky entrepreneurs.
Applications are open now through Friday, October 2.
Applicants will be notified of acceptance by Monday, October 5.
Ongoing Training
Each week, you'll work through a self-paced curriculum and practical tools for building your business model.
Weekly Coaching Sessions
Each week, we'll host a live group coaching session on Tuesdays at 5:30 PM CT where you'll review your progress with a coach, get feedback, and build alongside other founders.
A Business Model You Can Test on Customers
By the end of the seven weeks, you'll have a business model that is ready to be tested on potential customers.
Who It's For
Ambitious people ready to build a scalable company
Early-stage founders testing a new idea
Subject matter experts solving a problem in their industry
Founders who can commit to weekly curriculum and coaching
Who It's Not For
Businesses focused only on a local market with no plans to scale
Founders seeking general small business assistance
Entrepreneurs looking for immediate funding
Anyone unable to commit to the weekly sessions
7 weeks - Fully Online - Free to Western Kentucky Entrepreneurs
Coaching calls every Tuesday, 5:30-6:30 PM CT
Program runs October 6 - November 17, 2026
Ready to build something that works?
FAQs
What is the Innovation Challenge?
The Innovation Challenge is a seven-week entrepreneurial education program, funded by the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development. designed to help founders validate their ideas, develop a scalable business model, and build the foundation for a successful company.
How does the application process work?
Space in each cohort is limited. After you apply, our team will review applications and notify you of your status by Monday, October 5. Applications close Friday, October 2.
Who is the Innovation Challenge for?
- Individuals with an innovative business idea
- Early-stage founders
- Entrepreneurs solving meaningful problems
- People interested in building a scalable business
What if I only have an idea?
That’s perfectly okay! Many participants begin the program with only an idea. The Innovation Challenge is designed to help you evaluate, refine, and validate that idea before investing significant time or money.
How much does the program cost?
The Innovation Challenge is completely free to entrepreneurs in Western Kentucky, due to the support of local government & the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development.
It is only free during this program period and will cost if individuals choose to join outside of this Innovation Challenge.
How long is the program?
The program lasts seven weeks that include:
- Weekly training modules
- Weekly activities
- A live coaching session every Tuesday at 5:30 PM Central Time
Do I have to attend every coaching session?
To earn a Certificate of Completion, participants are expected to attend at least five of the seven live coaching sessions and complete the required coursework and final pitch. If you miss a session, recordings and course materials will be available so you can stay on track.
What will I build during the program?
Throughout the Innovation Challenge, you’ll develop:
- A Lean Canvas
- A validated business model
- Customer insights
- A stronger understanding of your target market
- A refined elevator pitch
What happens after the Innovation Challenge?
Participants who successfully complete the program will be recognized at Sprocket Demo Day and receive a Certificate of Completion. Companies that demonstrate strong progress may also be invited to continue into future phases of Market Fit Lab. Qualified companies may be recommended for future funding opportunities, including Sprocket’s Traction Program, or invited to showcase their business at Demo Day. These opportunities are competitive and are not guaranteed.
Does completing the program guarantee funding?
No, the Innovation Challenge is an educational program. Completion does not guarantee funding, investment, grants, admission into future Sprocket programs, or selection for Demo Day.
Who owns my business idea?
You do! Participants retain full ownership of their ideas, business concepts, intellectual property, and materials developed throughout the program.
Will my information be kept confidential?
Participants are expected to respect the confidentiality of fellow founders and avoid sharing another participant’s proprietary information without permission.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
If you have questions before or during the Innovation Challenge, please contact:
Maggie Hereford
Program Director
Sprocket
