THE CATALYST
An idea incubator and fund.
The Catalyst is a program of the Donald and Winifred Wilson Center for Innovation and Leadership at Grinnell College. As a part of the Wilson Center programming, the Catalyst serves as a hub for the creation, development, and establishment of any ideas and initiatives that students may envision.
WHO ARE WE?
The Catalyst is a peer-mentored idea-incubator staffed with student mentors that assist students in nurturing, developing, and transforming ideas into tangible projects, initiatives, organizations, or startups. Our mentors are trained to support any ideas brought by students, with guidance from the Director of the Wilson Center at Grinnell College.
Application Deadlines for AY26-27 are yet to be determined.
Fund application cycle 1:
- Sept. 24, 2025 – application deadline
- Nov 4, 2025 – pitch date for the proposals that are invited to pitch
Fund application cycle 2:
- Nov. 16, 2025 – application deadline
- Dec. 2, 2025 – pitch date for the proposals that are invited to pitch
Fund application cycle 3:
- Feb. 1, 2026 – application deadline
- Feb. 24, 2026 – pitch date for the proposals that are invited to pitch
Join the Catalyst to turn your ideas into impactful projects,
collaborate with a supportive community,
and gain the resources and skills to bring your vision to life!
