Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures
Providing early-stage support for student entrepreneurs
The Pava Marie LaPere Center for Entrepreneurship (previously FastForward U) empowers and equips Johns Hopkins students, alumni, and community changemakers to build impactful, sustainable business ventures.
As part of Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures, the Pava Center works in conjunction with a broader suite of JHTV resources designed to efficiently move ideas to the marketplace. A complement to JHTV’s other faculty-oriented resources, the center focuses on equipping students, alumni, and community changemakers for entrepreneurship. Grounded in Baltimore, with an eye toward the world, the Center convenes diverse stakeholders and resources to create a dynamic innovation ecosystem. The Pava Center supports founders doing good, creating value and opportunity by providing structured programs, funding, mentorship, and access to networks.
“Sometimes the only qualification you have to build something is the fact that you are the one who’s willing to build it.”
—Pava Marie LaPere
Pava was inspired to leverage technology to bring resources, knowledge and networks to entrepreneurs across the world in a scalable way. She founded EcoMap. , which raised millions in venture funding and grew to a team of 30 in Baltimore. Evan as she navigated the demands of leading a young tech startup, Pava remained a significant contributor to campus programming, helping design and introduce cohort-based accelerator programs.
Beyond campus, Pava was known throughout Baltimore as a champion of the city, an advocate for equity, and a trusted mentor for entrepreneurs. She was named to Forbes’ 30 under 30 list for Social Impact, among many other testaments to her impact.
Upon her death in 2023, Pava was described as a bright shining star of our entrepreneurial ecosystem, who challenged all of us to innovate within our communities. Her light will shine on through the Center for Entrepreneurship that she inspired, and through each entrepreneurial venture that it will empower.
Carey students have the opportunity to tap into a wide range of expertise throughout the Johns Hopkins ecosystem during their time with JHTV.
Student Venture Showcase
In partnership with the Pava Center, Carey Business School hosts the annual Student Venture Showcase, a high-stakes competition for students from all Johns Hopkins institutions to pitch their startup to a panel of experienced venture capitalists.
The competition offers unparalleled opportunities for students to learn from seasoned venture capitalists, network with other entrepreneurs, and compete for a cash prize. The winning team receives a $25,000 cash prize for their startup.
“My experience was so powerful and transformative that I really wanted to encourage students who have their own business plans to pursue them. As a student entrepreneur, there is value in winning. It serves as a stepping-stone to get attention from the venture community.”
Jon Kling
Founder/CEO, Municipal Acquisitions
Eligibility requirements
- Fully developed business plan
- At least one member must be a Johns Hopkins student with a prominent role on the team
- The business must be significantly owned and/or lead by a Johns Hopkins student
- It is recommended–but not required–that the team has previous incubator or competition experience