SMU Launch Accelerator

SMU Launch Startup Accelerator is a brand new University Accelerator in development for Summer 2025. Launch will foster a thriving community of student founders, mentors, and industry leaders, providing real-time collaboration, peer support, and essential resources for entrepreneurial success. Through a 12-week structured program, networking events, AMAs, and curated discussions, Launch will empower startups to navigate their journeys with confidence.

As a Creative Program Manager, I am building the accelerator from scratch, driving growth and engagement through a multi-channel strategy—leveraging word-of-mouth, outbound outreach, inbound marketing, and high-touch moments. By creating information sessions and sharing accelerator updates to the SMU network, I am building a strong pipeline of engaged founders while laying the groundwork for a scalable community on Slack.

Key Highlights & Initiatives

1️⃣ 🚀 Building the community from the ground up, leveraging word-of-mouth, outbound outreach, inbound marketing, and university partnerships.

  • Leveraging community outreach leading to 50+ current student applicants, and growing.

3️⃣ 📢 Working cross-functionally with Brand and Marketing

  • Collaborating on storytelling and messaging to highlight the impact of SMU Launch and showcase success stories.

  • Developing a cohesive content strategy across LinkedIn, newsletters, and community platforms to attract and retain founders.

2️⃣ 📈 Creating Content for information sessions to increase awareness, attract founders, and build early engagement for growing community.

  • Creating pitch deck content for interested participants, with 130+ users RSVP’d for upcoming info sessions.

Key Platforms & Skills

  • Community Platforms: Slack (future), LinkedIn, Email Marketing

  • Growth & Engagement: Outbound & inbound outreach, networking events, strategic partnerships

  • Content & Branding: Social media strategy, mentor/investor spotlights, accelerator updates

  • Events & Activations: Info sessions, AMAs, mentor networking, interactive workshops

Conclusion: Community-First When Building Brand New Accelerator

SMU Launch Startup Accelerator is coming soon, and we are in the grinding, building phase right now—laying the foundation for a vibrant, high-impact community. Our focus is on gathering student founders, SMU alumni, networked mentors, and industry-leading speakers to create an ecosystem that fosters real collaboration, innovation, and growth.

Building an accelerator isn’t just about providing resources—it’s about creating a culture where entrepreneurs feel supported, connected, and empowered to succeed. By leading with a community-first approach, we are ensuring that SMU Launch will be more than just an accelerator—it will be a movement that drives meaningful relationships, fuels innovation, and propels startups forward.

This is just the beginning, and we’re actively shaping the future of entrepreneurship at SMU. 🚀