Academy
Volta Academy helps future founders go from big idea to a viable tech-enabled startup.
With the support of Volta mentors and founders, participants learn how to test and validate their idea, outline an MVP and grow a scalable startup.
Volta Academy will take place once a week on Mondays from 6pm to 8:30pm for 12 weeks.
We have reserved several complimentary seats in the Program for underrepresented groups in the community; those selected will also receive a six-month Network Membership to ensure they have dedicated space to build out their idea. To apply for one of our complimentary seats, we ask that you self-identify on your application. Those selected will be notified by our team and must meet all other criteria for the Academy Program to be selected.
The next Volta Academy sessions will take place in January 2021.
- Applications open: December 1, 2020
- Application deadline has been extended to January 20, 2021
- Applicants selected and notified: on or before January 21
- First session: February 1, from 6pm to 8:30pm
Please note: Those participating in Volta Academy must register as an individual and not as a team/company. Regardless if you’re working with someone to execute the same idea, you both must apply on an individual basis and be accepted to attend.
Cost: $200 ($150 for Volta Network Members*)
*Must sign up and be accepted for Network Membership by January 24, 2021 to receive the discount.

Sessions covered during the Winter 2021 semester:
Week One
Introduction to the business model canvas
Week Two
Are you ready to startup?
Week Three
Validating your idea
Week Four
Product management 1010 + tech basics
Week Five
Building diverse + inclusive practices from the start
Week Six
Branding, product design + no-code apps
Week Seven
Creating your online presence
Week Eight
Pitch fundamentals
Week Nine
Legal considerations for your business with McInnes Cooper
Week Ten
Accounting session
Week 11
Funding your business
Week 12
Volta Academy Pitch Competition
Supported by:
Volta Academy Application Form