FAQ

Launchpad Incubator is a nonprofit makerspace and idea lab in West Dallas, Texas, where gifted students ages 11 to 18 build real projects with professional-grade tools. Below are the questions families, teachers and volunteers ask us most.

What is Launchpad Incubator?

Launchpad Incubator is a nonprofit makerspace and idea lab in West Dallas, Texas. Gifted students ages 11 to 18 (roughly grades 6-12) use professional-grade tools to build real projects, from weather balloons to electronics, vehicles, films and music. Launchpad Incubator is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 99-0682484.

Where is Launchpad Incubator located?

Launchpad Incubator is at 1018 Gallagher St, Dallas, TX 75212, in West Dallas. You can reach us at admin@launchpadincubator.org or (214) 501-8808.

Who is Launchpad a good fit for?

Launchpad is best suited for students who are excited to explore, are comfortable not knowing the answer yet, want to build things that don't come with instructions, are self-motivated learners, and are ages 11 to 18 (roughly grades 6-12).

What tools and equipment can students use?

Launchpad provides access to professional-grade tools in a supervised, collaborative environment: laser cutters, 3D printers, wood shop tools, CNC machines, computers for design, coding and editing, and a fully equipped music studio. We teach safety and responsibility first, then help students explore.

What is a crewmember?

A crewmember is a student member of Launchpad. Crewmembers use 3D printers and CNC machines, run Each One, Teach One workshops, work on team projects such as go-karts and hydroponic gardens, learn advanced STEAM topics in small groups, and compete in Science Olympiad and VEX Robotics.

How does my child become a crewmember?

There are five steps. A parent or guardian submits an application request form. The application is then sent to you. The prospective crewmember completes the application independently. You will hear back by email within a few weeks. If accepted, Launchpad will contact you about next steps.

How much does it cost to join?

Launchpad uses a sliding-scale membership model because we believe every gifted child deserves access regardless of financial circumstances. Scholarships are available, and you can contact us directly to discuss options. Current camp and program pricing is listed on our Events page.

When is Launchpad open?

Crewmembers come during after-school hours, weekends and school breaks, and families decide how much time they spend at Launchpad. Weather Balloon Wednesdays run every Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:30 pm. Summer camp runs Monday through Friday, 9 am to 4 pm.

Does Launchpad work with homeschool families?

Yes. Launchpad runs daytime sessions for homeschooled crewmembers, in addition to evenings and weekends for all crewmembers.

What happens at Launchpad summer camp?

Our summer camp is called The World Cup of Nerds. Campers choose from robotics, audio production, engineering, sewing, 3D printing, woodworking and laser cutting. Camp runs Monday through Friday, 9 am to 4 pm, and is open to ages 11 and up. Current crewmembers and families enrolling for three or more weeks get priority.

What have Launchpad students built?

After catastrophic flooding in Central Texas, a middle-school Launchpad team designed flat-packed weather balloon kits to collect hyperlocal atmospheric data supporting better extreme-weather forecasting. Crewmembers have also built go-karts, hydroponic gardens and rockets. One founding crewmember, Aidan, built a nuclear fusor over the course of a year with the goal of breaking the Guinness World Record for youngest fusioneer.

Is Launchpad Incubator a 501(c)(3)? Are donations tax-deductible?

Yes. Launchpad Incubator's EIN is 99-0682484, and our IRS determination letter is linked on the Donations page.

How can I donate?

You can donate by card through PayPal without needing a PayPal account. We also accept checks and gifts from charitable investment funds. In-kind donations are welcome, including items for 3D printing, woodshop, machine shop, metal working, AV production, computers, crafting, science, furniture and general office supplies. Email admin@launchpadincubator.org.

How can I volunteer or mentor?

Mentors guide crewmembers on projects in technology, engineering, electronics, metal, wood and 3D fabrication, science, creative arts and digital media. Graduate students, current and retired college professors and experienced business professionals are a strong fit, and we welcome talent from other backgrounds too. All mentors complete background checks. Remote mentoring is available.

I am a teacher. How do I refer a student?

Launchpad Talent Scouts are teachers, counselors, campus administrators and academic competition coaches who spot bright, often bored students. Scouts receive custom 3D-printed tokens to give to two or three students they believe will thrive at Launchpad. We recruit from public, private, charter and parochial schools.

How do I contact Launchpad Incubator?

Email admin@launchpadincubator.org or call (214) 501-8808. Launchpad Incubator is located at 1018 Gallagher St, Dallas, TX 75212.