Join Launch
The Launch Program is a community of student entrepreneurs and innovators at Wofford College. Entrepreneurial thinking is a proven skill that propels students toward success after college. The program aims to support and guide all students interested in growing their entrepreneurial skills and ventures. Launch is a part of the Career Center that adds value and support to students looking to develop their skills and experiences, which could very well be their first destination after graduation.
We encourage students to pursue entrepreneurial activities through programming, funding, pitch competitions, mentorship, and business community resources.
Incoming Freshmen
This annual scholarship is open to incoming freshmen who have started or plan to start a business or social venture and desire to cultivate and sharpen their entrepreneurial skills. This scholarship helps to support students who demonstrate ingenuity, fortitude, and commitment to entrepreneurial excellence.
Open Enrollment for Fall 2024
Receive first-hand experiences with an introduction to the Launch Program before committing. Meet students in the program, attend a workshop, and learn details regarding eligibility, requirements, expectations, and benefits. Launch is always eager to associate with other entrepreneurs. Please complete the Interest Form if you would like us to contact you.
| Nov 4 |
Power Up Spartanburg Speaker: Gabbi Pruitt |
Career Center |
| Nov 6 | Coffee Chat w/ Launch | Acorn Cafe, Milliken Building |
| Nov 7 |
Why Grant Funders Say “No” Speakers: Ashley Whitt & Karen Nichols |
Career Center |
| Nov 13 |
Hope International Speaker: Grace Cook |
Career Center |
| Nov 14 | SC Innovates Student Pitch Competition Finale |
University of South Carolina Darla Moore School of Business Columbia, SC |
| Nov 15 | Lunch w/ Launch | Burwell Dining Hall |
| Nov 19 |
Small Business Legal Matters Speaker: Tom Vanderbloemen, attorney |
Career Center |
| Nov 20 | Lunch w/ Launch | Galleria |
| Nov 21 | Coffee Chat w/ Launch |
Terrier Grounds, Mungo Student Center |
Returning students can apply for Fall 2025
If you are a rising sophomore, junior, or senior at Wofford and want to explore your entrepreneurial spirit, come see the benefits of the Launch Program. The application is open from April 1-30, 2025. Applicants are notified in early May regarding acceptance and will be able to make the most of their experience when returning to campus in August.
Launch Awards
Each spring, the Career Center and the Launch Program celebrate the achievements and talents of the magnificent seniors and those receiving recognition.
Fearless Award
This award honors dedication to impactful ventures that foster diversity and community ties. It champions inclusive environments and transformative potential, and it recognizes those who drive change with integrity and effectiveness.
2024 – Ben Sale
2023 – Zion Sampson
2019 – Sarah Reilly Murphy
2018 – Savannah Talledo
Tenacious Terrier
The recipient has surpassed program requirements, progressed through an entrepreneurial stage, demonstrated exemplary leadership and collaboration, and overcome entrepreneurial challenges successfully.
2024 – Isabella Smith
2024 – Cassie Figueroa
2024 – Davis Newman
2023 – Luke Nelson
2019 – Dieran McGowan
2018 – Richard Harrison
2018 – Adrian Thompson
2018 – Andres Suri
Entrepreneur of the Year
This award celebrates thriving Launch entrepreneurs who showcase skill/business sustainability, notable achievements, overcome obstacles, and rise to business challenges. Recipients are recognized for exemplary leadership, inspiring others, and demonstrating growth potential and future diversification.
2024 – Becca Watson
2024 – Garrett Steck
2023 – Kennedy Smith
2019 – Jeremy Powers
2018 – Grant Wollam
2018 – Duncan Williams
Launch in the news
A Taste of Tradition – Steck raises a bottle to dear old Wofford
Poised for Success – Watson embraces her family’s entrepreneurial legacy
Terrier Startup Challenge Results – Aspiring student entrepreneurs vie for startup funding
Terrier Startup Challenge – 8th Terrier Startup Challenge will be held Thursday
Entrepreneur in Residence – Becky McLeod Connelly ‘96 guides students during interim
The Entrepreneurial Mindset – Wofford students learn how to think like an entrepreneur during Interim course
Ready for Action – Zion Sampson ‘26 and Tommy Tessien ‘26 to represent Wofford in SoCon Entrepreneurship Challenge
Terrier Startup Challenge – 7th annual Terrier Startup Challenge takes place Thursday
