Can you upload programs you write to the iPad without involving the Apple store?

I understand that you need to pay $99 and get the SDK to write applications for the iPad, but do you really have to upload them to the store to get them to work on the iPad, or is there a way to get them onto your own device for "testing purposes?"

Failing that, I understand that Apple now has some way for corporations to distribute enterprise applications without involving the Apple store. What if you wanted to write an application that is to be distributed to a handful of people in a corporate environment. Could this alternate mechanism be used without involving the Apple store and its approval process?

Solution 1:

Yes, there is Ad Hoc distribution that lets you install your app on 100 iPods or iPads. There is something similar for corporations which allows more than 100 devices.

Ad Hoc Distribution Share your application with up to 100 other iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch users with Ad Hoc distribution. Share your application through email, or by posting it to a web site or server.

Solution 2:

Might not be exactly what you're looking for, but Test Flight is a great little web app for installing and updating your "beta tests" on-the-fly.

Update: TestFlight has been acquired by Apple and is now tightly integrated into iTunes Connect. It now lets developers invite upto 10,000 testers using their email id. For more details, see Apple TestFlight webpage.

The old TestFlight link is now not operational.