SDC Startup School
A self-paced, online program dedicated to foundational startup education. It bridges the knowledge gap for aspiring and early-stage founders, offering essential training on core business concepts, idea validation, and initial market entry.
Who This Program Is For
Aspiring Founders
First-Time Founders
University Students (Early Stage)
Professionals Seeking a Career Transition
Curriculum Components
All these benefits and more await you at the Launchpad Programme.
Idea Validation & Problem-Solution Fit
Tools and frameworks for rigorously testing business ideas against market needs.
Business ModelDesign
We help founders design business models from scratch using our proprietary frameworks and tools. Every element—from value exchange to revenue streams—is crafted for maximum impact
Market Research Fundamentals
How to conduct basic market analysis and competitive intelligence.
Minimum Viable Product (MVP) Development
Principles of building, testing, and iterating on early product versions.
Startup Foundation
This module lays the groundwork by debunking common myths about startups and covering essential topics like the SDC Startup Roadmap, VC funding, alternative funding sources, and causes of startup failures.
Ideation and Problem Validation
Equip yourself with tailored tools and frameworks to identify pressing problems, pinpoint ideal customers, and achieve problem-solution fit.
Business and Revenue Models
Learn how to define, deliver, and capture value, exploring crucial concepts such as unit economics, pricing techniques, and revenue strategies.
Product-Market Fit
Gain practical guidance on building MVPs, testing and tracking their performance, and iterating effectively to achieve product-market fit.
Programs Features
SDC LaunchPad is a highly competitive and takes only 3 cohorts (January, May, and September) in a year, with a maximum of 15 aspiring and first-time founders. The application portal is open all year round, and we will be on the lookout for individuals/startups who will get to be a part of any of the cohorts.
1. Modular Curriculum
Simplified and easier to assimilate, our curriculum is divided into focused modules that make learning more manageable and practical.
2. Assessment Test & Case Studies
Each module includes assignments and case studies that help you apply the lessons learned directly to your startup.
3. Discussion Room
Each session feels like you’re in the room, with live recordings from a classroom of over 100 students and relatable case studies. You get to share your learnings as you go on in our class.
4. Certification
Upon completion, graduates receive a certificate validating their skills and knowledge.
What Other Students are saying about SDC Startup School
A self-paced, online program dedicated to foundational startup education. It bridges the knowledge gap for aspiring and early-stage founders, offering essential training on core business concepts, idea validation, and initial market entry.
Not gonna lie, SDC Startup School has helped me change my approach regarding my startup since I joined. I now understand that a startup is not just about your idea, but about solving a problem that is actually a problem. SDC Startup School Thank you for the opportunity.
I remember a friend sharing details about the SDC Startup School with me. And honestly, it was one of those things I didn’t even know I needed. Founded by Cynthia E. Chisom and it’s honestly one of the most practical startup courses I’ve come across. It’s not just theory, it’s a step-by-step breakdown for anyone who has a business idea and doesn’t know where to start… or how to start smart.From understanding the real work of building an MVP to learning how to validate your idea, create structure, and even communicate your solution better, this course walks you through it all. And the best part? It’s 100% free. I’ve used what I learned from the course to help the startup founders I worked with, especially when we’re structuring marketing strategies or refining goals. If you’re a founder, an aspiring founder, or you’re just curious about how startups work, don’t sleep on this one.
Words can't even express my gratitude to the SDC team I must say this is really beyond what you are paid for it is actually an agenda ,a pursuit or a course. I am here to say a big thank you for every time you show up even when it is not convenient for every time you give a footprint, road map, or even vision .... In short thank you SDC for this wonderful program and watch out because I will be right there on your podcast sharing the victories with the upcoming founders
we listened and learnt a lot from our session with Mr Ishmail in the aspect of restructuring our focus and giving us a clear sense of what product we need to build first and fast
It was very impactful,there’s an understanding of what we are working, then a critique of it, opening our eyes to areas to be wary of, the importance of looking at other industry players. And an assignment. In all it was very impactful and helpful to I and my team. Thank you for the help and support.
The advisory sessions provided valuable insights. We gained a clearer understanding of our product, established criteria for failure, and pinpointed our target audience. She also assigned us tasks to identify critical issues and their resolutions, conduct extensive market research, and create a roadmap. We appreciate Cynthias guidance and eagerly anticipate our future sessions with her.
TThis has been a very helpful and insghtful learning material for me. I converse with other founders who didn't pass through this and I can clearly see a big gap from my approach and theirs. Thanks so much Chisom for all you do. You are indeed one of the true builders on the continent.
I have learned a lot, especially yesterday when Cynthia discussed the customer persona, value chain, and friction. It opened my mind to many things one has to know and prepare for before solving any problem.
It has been a great experience so far The class has been a ton of knowledge to my brain. I have been able to understand what it takes to build a startup You have to be ready!!
The podcasts (case studies) stand out for me. Being able to listen to experienced founders with the aim of incorporating those learnings to my activities will definitely be a gamechanger. Not to mention the industry jargon that I've learned over the past three days... I'll definitely sound smarter going forward.
Attending the SDC Start-Up School under the guidance of Cynthia has been an enlightening experience. Cynthias extensive industry knowledge has provided invaluable insights and unique perspectives on the intricacies of building and managing successful startups.
The use of relevant books from case studies of other founders has added a practical dimension to the learning process, enriching my understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape. This program has been an exceptional opportunity for gaining essential knowledge and practical wisdom in the realm of startups.
Ready to move from idea to impact?
Whether you’re just starting or stuck mid-way, we help you find clarity and move with intention. Every founder deserves a place to start and something stronger to grow with.
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