Watson Basecamp

The no-cost Watson Basecamp weekend is a two-day program for prospective Watson scholars that dives into the what and the how of social entrepreneurship. Participants learn the fundamentals of social innovation through workshops and mentorship using the Watson model and method.

We invite all young, impact-driven social innovators – high school senior, community college, gap-year, or university students – who are interested in the Watson model and have a powerful idea for social change – to apply to join us for a full Watson-experience weekend. We even fly out 5 Basecampers from around the country to each location.

Applications for Basecamp are closed for the Spring Semester, however we will re-open applications in August 2018. Check back then for details on new locations and dates!

Check out our Info Deck

This past spring, we were in three locations

Boulder, Colorado

February 24-25, 2018

Miami & Boca Raton, Florida

March 3-4, 2018

Phoenix, Arizona*

March 10-11, 2018

*This location has been changed from Austin, TX to Phoenix, AZ.

Requirements to Apply: High school seniors and community college, gap-year, and university students that are driven to create social impact in the world through entrepreneurship, and are interested in the Watson model of education. Applicants must currently reside within the USA.

Deadline to Apply? The deadline was February 4, 2018 for Basecamp Fellows. February 15, 2018 for local Basecampers.

Basecamp Fellows: This is a selective group of 15 Basecampers who are flown out from around the country to Basecamp!

Application Process: We evaluate all applications and invite the finalists to submit a short final-round video before we select the top 30 for each location.

Why Basecamp? We want to jump-start the journey of next generation social entrepreneurs through a two-day basecamp for prospective Watson students.

What it covers: The Watson Basecamp weekend has no cost. Attendees come to one of our three locations for a two day Basecamp to learn the fundamentals of social entrepreneurship and be introduced to the Watson model and method. Food and lodging will be covered for all attendees.

What do we do? All Basecampers will go through sessions such as:

  • Fundamentals of social entrepreneurship
  • Professional and developmental mentorship
  • Human-centric approach to root problems
  • Student-led workshops and TED-style talks
  • Prototyping solutions

See the weekend itinerary here

Are you ready for the full Watson experience?

We’re calling all young leaders, social entrepreneurs, innovators, dreamers and thought-leaders to pioneer their education. While applications are now closed for the Fall 2018 programs, you can email info@watsonuniversity.org to learn more about our Extended Deadline policy.