Got questions? We've got answers.
Project Origin is a student-run incubator specifically designed for immigrant high school students. We run the Origin Challenge, a 5-week program with one intensive session per weekend where students identify problems, design prototypes, build MVPs, and pitch their solutions to mentors and judges who understand the immigrant experience.
Origin Challenge is open to all high school students (grades 9-12) who identify with the immigrant experience. This includes first-generation Americans, recent immigrants, and students from immigrant families. No coding experience is required, and the program is completely free.
Not at all! We'll teach you how to use AI tools and no-code platforms to build your MVP. Many successful participants had no prior coding experience. The focus is on problem-solving and creativity, not technical skills.
Origin Challenge is completely free! There are no hidden fees, no costs for materials, and no charges for mentorship. We believe that financial barriers shouldn't prevent talented students from exploring entrepreneurship.
That's perfectly fine! Many students develop their ideas during the program. We'll help you identify problems in your community and guide you through the process of turning those problems into viable solutions. The program is designed to spark creativity and innovation.
Weekend 1: Problem discovery and user research. Weekend 2: Design and prototyping in Figma. Weekend 3: Building your MVP using AI and no-code tools. Weekend 4: Pitch day where you present to mentors and judges. Each weekend session includes workshops, mentorship sessions, and hands-on building time.
Our mentors are successful immigrant founders, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs who understand your journey. They come from diverse backgrounds and have experience building companies, raising funding, and navigating the startup world as immigrants.
We strongly encourage full participation as each day builds on the previous one. However, if you have unavoidable conflicts, please mention them in your application and we'll work with you to find a solution. Missing more than one day may impact your ability to complete the program successfully.
Just bring yourself, a laptop if you have one (we can provide one if needed), and an open mind! We'll provide all materials, software access, and meals. The most important thing is your willingness to learn and participate.
Simply fill out our application form on the Apply page. It takes about 10 minutes and asks about your background, interests, and any ideas you might have. We review applications on a rolling basis and will get back to you within a week.
You'll leave with a working prototype, pitch deck, new skills, and a network of mentors and peers. Many participants continue working on their ideas, while others use the experience to explore other opportunities. We also provide ongoing support and connections to help you continue your entrepreneurial journey.