Ever catch yourself saying, "I wish a prop firm would try that"?
Maybe it's a different account structure.
A new feature.
A better way to manage risk.
That's why we built Topstep Labs.
Because the future of funding doesn't get built by standing still.
It comes from trying bold ideas, learning what works, and listening to traders.
The Story Behind Topstep Labs
When Topstep acquired The Futures Desk, we brought together two teams obsessed with helping traders succeed. Josh Schwartzberg was the man behind The Futures Desk, where he focused on helping traders build better habits, use better tools, and find better opportunities.
Now, as Head of Innovation, Josh leads Topstep Labs, where trader feedback and bold ideas become limited-time experiments backed by the scale and support of Topstep.
"We started The Futures Desk to help traders actually learn the craft, not just chase a quick payout," said The Futures Desk co-founder Josh Schwartzberg. "Topstep is the only place that truly shares that obsession. Together, we're going to give The Futures Desk community and the Topstep community the deep attention and growth tools they deserve."
And it all starts with a Trading Combine.
Meet Drop #001: $25K Static Trading Combine
The first experiment out of Topstep Labs was the $25K Static Trading Combine.
Inspired by trader feedback, Drop #001 offered a smaller account size with a static Max Loss Limit and the same path to funding, payouts, and a Live Funded Account.
Here’s what Traders loved about it:
Small account. Big goals. The $25K Static Trading Combine gave traders a new path to funding.
🔒 Static Means Locked
The $1,000 max loss limit stayed fixed at $24,000. No trailing drawdown moving behind you. Just keep your balance above the line and keep trading.
💰 Smaller Account. $4K Payout Cap.
A new $25K account size with a lower price and the same $4,000 payout cap in Express Funded Accounts as the $50K Trading Combine.
🚀 Same Opportunity. New Ways to Get There.
Pass the Trading Combine, earn funding, take payouts, and work toward a Live Funded Account.
Topstep Labs is all about experimenting with new ideas and giving traders more ways to reach their goals. And Drop #001 was just the beginning.
Want to see how Topstep helps traders earn funding? Learn more.
More Topstep Labs Experiments Are Coming
The Lab never really closes.
We're always trying new ideas, listening to traders, and looking for what's next.
Sign up for updates and keep an eye on the Topstep Labs page. You never know what we'll cook up next.
And while you wait for the next experiment, you don't have to sit on the sidelines.
Start a Trading Combine today and take your shot at becoming a Funded Trader.
Topstep Labs FAQs
What is Topstep Labs?
Topstep Labs is where we experiment with bold ideas and limited-time drops inspired by trader feedback. Every experiment is designed to create better opportunities for traders.
What is the $25K Static Trading Combine?
The $25K Static Trading Combine was the first experiment to come out of Topstep Labs. It featured a fixed $1,000 Max Loss Limit, a new $25K account size, a $4,000 payout cap, and the same path to funding, payouts, and a Live Funded Account.
How do you become a Funded Trader with Topstep?
Every trader starts in the Trading Combine. Trade in a simulated environment using real market data, hit the profit target, and follow the rules. Pass in as little as two days, earn funding with up to $150K in buying power, take payouts, and work toward a Live Funded Account.
Is the $25K Static Trading Combine a permanent offering?
Topstep Labs is all about trying bold ideas and giving traders new ways to reach their goals. Some drops may become part of the core lineup, while others may remain limited-time opportunities.
How do I stay updated on new Topstep Labs drops?
Sign up for updates and keep an eye on the Topstep Labs page. New experiments and limited-time drops can happen at any time, and the Labs page is the best place to see what's coming out of the Lab.
Does Topstep Labs change the path to becoming a Funded Trader?
Topstep Labs experiments may introduce new features or account structures, but the goal remains the same: pass the Trading Combine, earn funding, take payouts, and work toward a Live Funded Account.
.png)
.png)