Venture Initiation Program
The Venture Initiation Program (VIP) is where Penn’s boldest founders turn ideas into impact. Whether you're just starting out or scaling fast, VIP is your launchpad—a high-energy, founder-first ecosystem designed to help you build, test, and grow.

Check out our 3 core programs below — VIP Incubator, VIP-X PHL, VIP-X SF.
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For Founders Ready to Build

Get hands-on with bootcamps, mentorship, and a thriving founder community at Tangen Hall. No rigid structure—just the tools, network, and support to turn ideas into real ventures. Open to Penn students at any stage.

October 31, 2023 11:10 PM
These 1:1 sessions are for students with specific questions that align with the experience, or expertise of the alumni Visiting Expert. Students can also get practical 1:1 advice and assistance from student and professional legal experts.

October 31, 2023 11:10 PM
Ask Me Anything (AMA) sessions are for students with general questions, interested in learning more about a particular industry or role, or interested in hearing about an expert’s career trajectory.

For Advanced Entrepreneurs

August 01, 2024 03:41 PM
VIP-X is an intense, 3-month accelerator program for the most dedicated student entrepreneurs and advanced startups.
February 01, 2023 05:07 PM
VIP-X in San Francisco is an accelerator open to Penn alumni and student entrepreneurs in the Bay Area who are founders or leaders of early-stage ventures.
Wharton Entrepreneurship played a huge role in Avisi's early days. As student entrepreneurs, we hardly knew where to start; but the community gave us the resources, support, and confidence to overcome countless challenges and create a medtech venture. If you're a student, I highly encourage you to explore Venture Lab and think about pursuing entrepreneurship to solve issues you're passionate about - if not now, when, and if not you, who?
Rui Jing Jiang, CEO & Co-Founder, Avisi Technologies Inc