LSIF

 

Igniting Student Innovation

 

The Louisiana Student Innovation Fund (LSIF) provides non-dilutive grants to student-led startups born from the Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup—Louisiana’s premier college student business plan competition. LSIF’s mission is to keep talent in Louisiana by supporting student entrepreneurs as they turn ideas into thriving businesses and create local jobs. As one of our generous donors puts it: “We’re kissing frogs to find entrepreneurship royalty.”

 

 

 

 

What is the LSIF?

The LSIF is a grant program designed to accelerate student-led business ventures by awarding annual startup funding. It extends the impact of the Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup by offering invited teams a chance to refine, develop, and launch their businesses with financial support.

Key Features

Grants between $5,000–$30,000 (up to $50,000 in rare cases)

Non-dilutive funding (no equity taken)

Milestone-based disbursements

Startup-focused use of funds

Annual fund availability: ~$200,000

 

 

 

 

 

Who is Eligible?

Only teams that participate in the Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup and are judged in the written round are invited to apply.

Even if you’re not a finalist, your team may still receive an LSIF invitation. We believe great ideas come from all stages—and some just need a little more time and support.

 

 

 

 

 

How It Works

1. LSIF Invitations Sent
Within one week after Pelican Cup finalists are announced.

2. Submit Letter of Intent (LINK goes here)
Due by April 7, 2025, at 11:59 PM

3. Complete Proposal Package (LINK goes here)
Final proposals are due June 9, 2025, at 11:59 PM

4. Review & Milestone-Based Awards
Grants awarded based on proposal strength and milestone planning.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Use of Funds

Grants must be used to:

• Launch or grow student startup ventures

• Move from idea/early traction stages to scaling and growth

• Meet specific, measurable business milestones

Proposals must outline how, why, and when funds will be used—and what outcomes are expected.

 

 

 

 

 

Important Funding Guidelines

Total LSIF Grant Pool: $200,000/year

Most awards: $5,000–$25,000

Exceptional awards: Up to $50,000

All grants over $2,500 are distributed in tranches based on performance

External funding is encouraged. LSIF is often a first step in a broader fundraising journey.

 

 

 

 

 

Information Meetings

Each year, one or two optional virtual info sessions will be held for invited teams. Attendance is highly encouraged. Sessions cover:

• Proposal expectations

• Funding process

• Frequently asked questions

• Insights from past awardees

 

 

 

 

Evaluation Board & Process

Grants are awarded by a 4-member Evaluation Board—two faculty and two experienced community professionals—working alongside the LSIF Coordinator.

• No equity taken

• Strict no-contact policy between teams and board

• All communication must go through LSIF Coordinator

Proposals are reviewed for:

• Clarity and feasibility

• Use of funds and success metrics

• Team commitment and business potential

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ready to Innovate?

If your team is serious about launching a business in Louisiana, the LSIF is here to help you take the next step.
From spark to startup—this fund is your launchpad.

Participate in the Entrepreneurship Pelican Cup | Get invited | Submit your Letter of Intent | Secure your grant and build your business

 

 

The Louisiana Student Innovation Fund is proudly administered by the University of Louisiana Monroe Foundation in partnership with the College of Business and Social Sciences.