What are you most proud of when you look back at your time with Launch thus far?
Katy, Launch Project Director
We have built a customized accelerator program from scratch and have identified and partnered with 10—soon to be 15—innovation teams to explore new ways to ensure that young people in the United States have the information and tools they need to make informed decisions that impact their futures. This has involved coaching, training, learning and engaging additional expertise when needed.
We have also intentionally partnered with other organizations to identify what additional value our team can bring to this space and have pivoted our approach based on the evolving needs of our innovation teams.
Meg, Launch Training Team
One of the most rewarding parts of being a part of Launch is being able to compare a cohort that’s just starting with one that’s preparing to finish the program. Seeing how teams evolve in their thinking, confidence, and ability to communicate their innovation reinforces the value that Launch provides as a program.
Kineka, Launch Coaching Team
I am most proud of how our coaching team has established a consistent, high-impact support system that guides teams through the process of iterating their technical content and market strategies, ultimately transforming their innovations into feasible, scalable health solutions designed to improve the lives of adolescents. Specifically, by facilitating bi-monthly deep-dives that support thoughtful iteration, we have helped multiple teams move from varying innovation concept phases into dissemination-ready solutions.
What are you most looking forward to for 2026 and the future of Launch?
Katy, Launch Project Director
I am looking forward to kicking off our Cohort 3 innovation teams—we have learned so much alongside our Cohort 1 and 2 teams! I’m also excited to follow how our teams expand and build over time. There is sometimes a perception that innovation happens quickly and instantly. However, the reality is that deep and lasting change can take time and effort to gather momentum. Our teams have shown clear commitment to evidence and innovation within the field of adolescent sexual health, and I’m excited to see how we can build momentum for innovators who want to scale and sustain their innovations within their communities and beyond.
Meg, Launch Training Team
I’m excited about welcoming Cohort 3 into the program next month. Each new cohort brings fresh ideas, energy, and perspectives, and it’s always inspiring to see teams at the very beginning of their Launch journey.
During the next few months, we’ll also be wrapping up Cohort 2 and supporting teams as they prepare for Demo Day. The Launch curriculum is designed to teach core concepts in innovation and commercialization while giving teams the space and support to apply what they’re learning. Demo Day represents the culmination of 12 months of hard work, growth, and iteration, and I am looking forward to seeing the teams reflect on their Launch journey and pitch their innovation to a larger audience.
I’m also always excited to hear updates from our Cohort 1 teams and learn about the new advancements, pivots, and insights they’ve gained since finishing the program in 2025.
Kineka, Launch Coaching Team
In 2026, I look forward to supporting new teams as they move from development pivots and iteration phases into scaled implementation where they can achieve measurable health outcomes for adolescents. I look forward to continuing to refine our coaching model to better support teams’ long-term sustainability. I am most looking forward to witnessing our teams—new, current, and graduates—move from final iteration into scaled implementation of adolescent-centered health innovations that are impactful for young people.