The Spaceship: New Online Program For First-Time Impact Entrepreneurs

The Spaceship is a new virtual learning program designed to provide a foundation for new entrepreneurs to make a difference for the planet, from finding out one’s passion point to gaining access to workshops and connecting with like-minded peers. The online learning course is slated to launch this September. 

Founded by a team of educators, investors and serial entrepreneurs, The Spaceship caters to first-time entrepreneurs who want to develop solutions for the world’s most pressing issues. Designed with the belief that entrepreneurs do not necessarily need a background in business or have extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, the program does not have prerequisites for enrolment. 

Typically, students will take anywhere from three to six months to complete the full course, depending on each individuals’ area of interest and goals. The Spaceship’s program itself is self-paced, meaning that each student is able to decide the speed and flexibility of their learning. 

We’re the starting place for building the tangible tools needed to effectively participate in radically changing the world through entrepreneurship.

Laura Francois, Co-Founder & Chief Instructor of The Spaceship

There are five main phases in the curriculum, starting with identifying the key issue that individuals are passionate about, to launching a business plan, with each segment of the program guided by pre-recorded videos, workshops, podcast interviews with industry experts as well as live-streamed online sessions. 

Educators leading the program include co-founder and chief instructor Laura Francois, a trained social impact strategist with over a decade of experience in the space, and co-founders Clement Hochart, Valerian Fauvel and Maximilien Masson who have together launched a number of sustainable startups including eco toothpaste brand NOICE and circular food takeaway solution barePack.

“The Spaceship is a hands on knowledge program for entrepreneurs focused on solving some of the world’s biggest social and environmental challenges,” said Francois on social media. “We’re the starting place for building the tangible tools needed to effectively participate in radically changing the world through entrepreneurship.”

The Spaceship officially launches on September 1 and tuition fees start from €250 (US$297) per person with discounts for group bundle purchases. There is also the option to sponsor a student through a donation to the academy’s scholarship fund, which will help entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds to gain equal access to the program. 

Unlike incubators, the program is solely focused on supporting entrepreneurs holistically, from shifting mindsets to hands-on knowledge of the impact startup world, rather than a platform for funding or business growth. 

Those enrolled in The Spaceship will be able to gain access to a private community on the platform Slack, where fellow entrepreneurs are able to interact, set up peer-to-peer activities and exchange ideas and feedback on projects. Virtual webinar networking series sessions will also further support connection between community members. 

Among some of the program outcomes include entrepreneurial development, guidance on starting an impact business, having an “accountability partner” to support the kickstart of a business and a toolkit to help expedite startup planning and development.

Lead image courtesy of Getty Images.