If you are an 11th grader in Philadelphia who is on track to graduate next year, you should apply! We are looking for students who have an interest in technology. You do not need any prior experience with coding or technology and you do not need to know for sure you want to have a career in tech!

Yes! Launchpad is offered at zero costs to the participants. In fact, we will pay you an hourly wage to participate starting the summer before 12th grade.

Launchpad is a free opportunity to earn up to 30 college credits, career-ready certificates and skills, and most importantly a network of employers, mentors, and professionals in tech. We believe if you are working, you should be paid, so all of your time spent in Launchpad taking college classes, doing internships, and building skills is compensated with competitive pay.

By the end of 12th grade, you will have earned up to $4,000 by participating in Launchpad. After high school graduation, you will be paid a competitive wage as you move through the boot camp and work with Launchpad Inc.

Launchpad is a three year program. It begins with a six month after-school program in Spring of your 11th grade year. As a 12th grader, you will spend four days a week going to Launchpad in the afternoon following early release from your high school. After graduation, you will stay with us for 12-18 months preparing to enter the workforce full-time.

Launchpad is a blend of career prep, college courses, and real world experience. We are expecting Launchpad graduates to leave the program with about 30 college credits from Arizona State University. These credits could be transferred to a four-year university if you end up deciding to go back and get a degree after graduating from Launchpad. However, if you are planning to enroll in college full-time right after high school, Launchpad is likely not a good fit for you.

While Launchpad is a lot of work, it is possible to manage it alongside a part time job. We are expecting 12th graders to be released around 4pm and then during boot camp and Launchpad Inc. you will be asked to commit to working 30 hours per week at Launchpad. Launchpad coaches are here to support you with managing your schedule if you are planning to work or go to school part-time in addition to Launchpad.

You can submit your online application here.

A completed application for Launchpad includes a student application form, a completed parent/guardian form, and a parent/guardian release form.

Applications are currently closed. We will be opening applications for our 2024 cohort in Fall of 2023.

After you apply, you will be contacted by the Launchpad team to schedule an interview. If selected, you will conduct an interview with the Launchpad staff at your high school.

By donating to Launchpad, you are participating in a movement to create more opportunities for underrepresented young people and a more diverse workforce in tech. We are preparing young people for careers instead of jobs. Visit our donation page to give now.

We are always looking for local businesses to partner with Launchpad through our corporate immersion programming (group visits, shadowing, internships, etc). Corporate immersion is designed to offer Launchpad students the opportunity to build their professional networks while expanding their knowledge of career pathways and local businesses. Businesses can also sponsor Launchpad special events such as pitch competitions and other student-led impact projects. Launchpad also seeks to develop specialized training and apprenticeship programs with select employers to help them meet their hiring needs. To learn more, please contact info@launchpadphilly.org.

The Launchpad team welcomes the expertise and time of volunteers to support our programming and connect with our community.  Volunteers are invited to lead guest lectures, share their journey, offer project based feedback, and engage as mentors, among other opportunities.  To learn more, please contact info@launchpadphilly.org.