Propel is a quarterly program for women students with a startup idea.
Launched in 2018, Propel is an internationally recognized, award-winning program providing networking, mentorship, and immersive learning experiences. Women who are full-time students can apply for the program, which is made possible by generous donors. Ideas can be for profit or nonprofit, hardware or software, commercial products, or artistic endeavors—anything that requires bringing a new idea to fruition.
40% of US businesses are owned by women. However, less than 10% of venture-backed companies have a woman founder and only 2.8% of venture capital went to all-woman founding teams. The Garage is committed to supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs. In 2018, The Garage launched the Propel program to support women students.
Thank you to the following generous donors for their commitment to supporting the Propel program and student entrepreneurs at Northwestern:
Invitations to networking events throughout the year.
Participants attend an all-expenses-paid annual field trip to visit industry-leading brands - plus a $1,000 award to spend on an entrepreneurial project.
One-on-one mentorship with accomplished professionals.
"Propel gave me the confidence to turn my idea into a registered company. The one-to-one mentorship was invaluable, but what I appreciated most was the supportive community of women helping each other grow, as entrepreneurs and beyond."
Katia Shek
Weinberg '26
"I can certainly point to The Garage as the launchpad formy start as an entrepreneur and the beginnings of my company, bekome. The support, mentorship, and network gained through Propel has been crucial toward our ability to launch our MVP, test product-market-fit, and be set up for success on our path forward toward growth.”
Shanna Traphoner-Liu
Kellogg '22
"It’s inspiring being in a space created by women with the goal of uplifting women entrepreneurs. I’ve met so many amazing friends and alumni who I can learn and grow from."
Sofie Davis
Medill '21
"Over the course of three months in the Propel program, I've come to know like-minded peers with whom I can discuss issues, and mentors who have been incredibly helpful informalizing my ideas and providing guidance on the next steps of my venture. I've also learned about the resources available to support me as I continue on this path."
Victoria Israel
McCormick '26
"The Garage’s Propel program has been an amazing experience as it has introduced me to knowledgeable individuals, provided me with constant advice and feedback, and exposed me to a wealth of resources. The Garage has truly been a guiding force as I began my entrepreneurial journey!”
Naomi Aisen
Weinberg '23
2311 Campus Drive Suite 2300
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