Tools

Creative Problem Solving

This tool set explores how to generate bold ideas and make confident decisions using creative problem-solving frameworks. Participants will practice tools for divergent thinking to expand possibilities and convergent thinking to focus, prioritize, and move ideas forward. Ideal for anyone looking to strengthen their creative agility and decision-making skills.

 

Design Thinking

Learn how to tackle challenges with empathy, creativity, and iteration. This workshop introduces the core phases of design thinking - empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test—through fast-paced, hands-on activities that help participants reframe problems and explore innovative solutions.

 

Pitch Practice - Sharpen Your Story

Whether you're presenting an idea, project, or product, this session helps you craft a clear, compelling pitch. Participants will refine their messaging, practice delivery, and receive feedback to build confidence and clarity - perfect prep for competitions, capstones, or stakeholder presentations.

  

Lean Discovery - Summer Incubator

UR Summer Incubator is powered by a partnership with Virginia’s Innovation Commercialization Assistance Program (ICAP). With mentoring and expert guidance, teams learn how to identify initial customer segments, conduct ethnographic research, analyze data, validate ideas, and create a statement to articulate why your idea should exist and an experiment strategy to move your idea forward. Students learn and use the Lean Launchpad as its principal methodology. The program is open to all majors and is fully remote, 240 hours over 6 weeks beginning in May annually, with ongoing mentorship post-program. Students apply to the Innovation Studio; accepted students receive a $3000 stipend to work on their idea. More information available on request.  Application Link Posted January 2026