Check out this recording of our March 23, 2020 COVID-19 LaunchPad network call for resources, ideas, and strategies for remote program delivery from Blackstone, Techstars, most importantly, all of you!

In response to the COVID-19 virus, many of our LaunchPad network schools and campuses have transitioned to virtual program delivery for the remainder of the spring semester or quarter. To help inform our Campus Directors about resources and brainstorm solutions across the network, we hosted a conference call to discuss this on Monday, March 23, 2020. 

Among the resources shared during the call:

• Remote “Events” links, Teaching Tools, and Content Resources
• Techstars Entrepreneur’s Toolkit
• LaunchPad and Techstars AMAs (recordings and upcoming invites)

Facilitated by Takhani Kromah, four schools also shared some of how they’ve pivoted and successfully implemented program delivery in the past two weeks. Schools featured include:

• University of California, Riverside
• University of Texas, Dallas
• NYU
• Syracuse University

Live conference call polling results include:

• What are your biggest challenges operating in a virtual/remote environment (Tick all that apply)?

1. Accessing or navigating virtual tech tools or software (15%)
2. Finding virtual learning tools or content (20%)
3. Keeping students engaged (70%)
4. Connecting students to mentors or venture coaches (20%)
5. Organizing and hosting events virtually (45%)
6. Fosting virtual collaboration (45%)
7. Other (20%)

• What type of virtual content are you creating (tick all that apply)?

1. Podcast (15%)
2. Online bootcamp workshops (45%)
3. Virtual pitch competition (50%)
4. Virtual office hours (mentoring, coaching, etc.) (80%)
5. Webinars (45%)
6. Newsletter (75%)
7. Social Media (70%)
8. Accelerators (25%)
9. Other (30%)

• Are you tracking engagement?

1. Yes (85%)
2. No (15%)

• What resources would strengthen your LaunchPad Program during this time (Tick all that apply)?

1. Virtual entrepreneurship learning modules (65%)
2. Virtual technology or software (30%)
3. Access to mentors (30%)
4. Content (65%)
5. Speakers to participate in virtual events (85%)
6. Access to events (pitch competitions, webinars, etc.) (50%)
7. Other (10%)