Innovation Learning Pathways

ILP Incubator

Program Overview

Our Innovation Learning Pathways (ILP) Incubator program is targeted for motivated students that want a hands-on, challenging STEM experience. By supporting these individuals with the proper community and mentoring, our goal is to help them realize their potential for innovation in a way that cannot be accomplished in the classroom.

The ILP Incubator is structured as a research institution for high school students. Participants in the program contribute towards the advancement of supported research initiatives (these vary over time) thereby furthering their expertise and knowledge in STEM. This is a “learn by doing” exercise that will help participants understand what it takes to move from theory to practice.

Incubator roles

Participants are supported in the Incubator by a group facilitator as well as industry mentors matched to their specific interests and goals. The Incubator is the forum where participants develop a genuine passion for exploring new ideas. To help individualize the Incubator experience, each student designates functional roles of interest to them. These roles allow program facilitators to simultaneously ensure that the activities of each Incubator participant align with their personal development as well as the continued progress of each active research area.

Research / Experimental scientist

Conduct primary and secondary research including developing experimental design and methodology

Technologist / Programmer

Apply technology and programming skills towards the advancement of research objectives

Engineer

Design, build, and evaluate prototypes related to research topics

Data scientist / Mathematician

Apply statistical and mathematical techniques to analyze and model data

Writer / Communications

Create written content and presentations to effectively convey research findings externally

Eligibility and Guidelines

The ILP Incubator is delivered through virtual interactions (video conferences, online chat, etc.). Interested participants can apply throughout the year. In general, we consider students that are at least 13 years old and have not yet started their senior year of high school for the Incubator program. Some additional details include:

Students are expected to be available and have access to a computer and Internet in the evenings (US Central Time)

By design the program is continuous and includes a monthly program fee (partial scholarships available based on financial need). While participants can pause their membership as needed during the year, new students are expected to commit to (at least) three consecutive months in the program.

Hear from parents and students

Interested in Learning More?

We invite students and parents to attend online information sessions to learn more about the ILP Incubator program and application process. During these sessions attendees will have a chance to gain a deeper understanding of the program as well as ask any questions they might have.