Founder’s Path

This program is designed to help USU students start a business while earning money to support their education.

Founders will earn sweat equity, with up to 70% equity available based on achieving specific milestones. Milestones will be tied to key achievements such as idea validation, product readiness, and sales targets (e.g., $500, $2,500, $10,000, and up to $500,000 in sales). For each milestone, founders can earn between 5% and 10% equity. Cache Valley Capital, LLC will retain 30% equity to fund future founders.

Support includes hourly pay, equity grants, bookkeeping and CPA services, LLC setup, and mentorship from local business leaders. Founders will be organized into pods for accountability and peer support. Milestones will also have deadlines and budgets to ensure progress and success.

Mentorship

You will be assigned a mentor who will provide valuable guidance and support throughout your journey. Your mentor will bring expertise, insight, and a fresh perspective to help you navigate challenges, refine your business strategy, and accelerate growth. With their experience, you’ll gain access to practical advice, networking opportunities, and tailored feedback to help you make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls. This mentorship is designed to empower you, ensuring you have the resources and knowledge to succeed as you scale your business.