School of Startups: Foundations

Pre-Incubation Startup Programme

From Business Ideas to Validated Business Models


Why We Built Foundations

Every year, thousands of entrepreneurs start with great ideas, but many never make it past the first stage. Not because they lack talent or motivation, but because they build too soon, spend too much, and validate too late.

We created Foundations to help you avoid those costly mistakes. This program is your shortcut to understanding what truly matters before you invest months, or years, building something the market doesn’t need.

Here, you’ll learn to test, adapt, and grow like the best founders do. You’ll follow a clear, structured path designed to help you save time, save money, and increase your odds of success, so you can join the small percentage of startups that actually make it.

What's included?

  • Step-by-step Guide
  • Real-world Case Studies
  • Industry Best Practices
  • Common Pitfalls to Avoid
  • Key Resources
  • 225 Guiding Questions

Roadmap to Success

You can follow the structured chapters as a step-by-step guide to build your business from the ground up, or use them as a dynamic library, accessing specific modules as needed. It’s your roadmap tailored to your entrepreneurial journey.

Deliverables

At the end of each chapter, a Deliverables Section ensures you put theory into action by producing key documentation related to that stage of your startup’s development. By the end of the programme, you will have a complete business plan and a pitch deck, equipping you with the tools to validate your idea, refine your strategy, and attract investors. 
Ignite Your Entrepreneurial Journey with

Foundations Pre-Incubation Programme

6-month plan

We believe every entrepreneur should have access to the right tools to start their journey. That’s why we offer a series of free chapters (see below) to help you take your first steps in building your startup.

For those ready to go further, our €150 paid plan unlocks exclusive benefits, including access to premium contents, pitch day at UPTEC, and a weekly newsletter featuring top entrepreneurial events and networking with a thriving startup community. Contact us at schools@uptec.up.pt to learn more.

Whether you're exploring an idea or building an MVP, we provide the right support at every stage. 🚀
  • +100 hours of entrepreneurial content
  • Office Hours 
  • Weekly newsletter
  • Ecosystem events
  • Pitch day
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