National Science Foundation I-Corps
Watch our informational video here!
The University of Montana (UM) through the Blackstone LaunchPad has recently joined the Great Plains I-Corps Hub.
The program’s goal is to create a STEM-focused ecosystem which successfully commercializes research and innovations. In short to accelerate the commercialization of research and innovative ideas.
The I-Corps program will provide FREE training and coaching to help researchers and innovators identify target markets, conduct market research and evaluate market readiness. In addition, teams will receive grants of up to $2500 to further their commercialization research effort. Each team will consist of:
- Technical lead
- Entrepreneurial lead
- Mentor
The I-Corps program is a 5-week program which includes the I-Corps Customer Discovery Academy comprising three 1.5-hour classes focusing on how to:
- Identify target markets
- Conduct customer research
- Gain and understanding of technology commercialization and barriers to success
Teams then work over the 5 weeks to perform targeted customer interviews and evaluate feedback to refine or revise the team’s understanding of its target market and commercial potential.
In the final week of the program teams reach a go/no-go decision on whether to continue or re-direct the commercialization potential of their idea. The final week also features an event where teams present their findings and where key community partners will be invited to encourage networking and connect teams with additional resources.
The program is open faculty, staff, students as well as community members.
Regional I-Corps Groups
As a part of the Great Plains I-Corps Hub, teams from UM have the chance to participate in the Regional I-Corps Cohorts. The Regional I-Corps training provides teams with the opportunity to learn the best practices about customer discovery needed to understand their ecosystem and stakeholders more thoroughly. Throughout the process, teams will acquire feedback on the best path forward from trained instructors and mentors and identify key milestones on the commercialization pathway. The unique program gives teams the opportunity to connect with innovators across the Great Plains region.
To learn more, please visit the I-Corps Hub Website.