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Could your research, invention or creative idea make an impact beyond the academic world? The National Science Foundation’s I-Corps^TM programs offer the ideal starting point. Designed to help those new to commercialization explore the market potential of their innovations, I-Corps serves as a practical and accessible first step for anyone looking to translate their discoveries into real-world solutions.

Why start with I-Corps?

For some, commercialization can feel far removed from their academic goals. But what if the process aligned with your mission to create a meaningful impact? The NSF I-Corps program provides a structured, supportive pathway for exploring how your innovation could address real-world challenges—with no prior entrepreneurial experience.Ìý

¾«Æ·SMÔÚÏßӰƬ is a national leader in the NSF I-Corps Hub: West Region, a collaboration with universities across the West, including University of Southern California, University of California, Los Angeles, California Institute of Technology, University of California (Riverside and Santa Barbara), ¾«Æ·SMÔÚÏßӰƬ, Colorado State University, University of Utah, Colorado School of Mines, University of New Mexico.

As part of I-Corps Hub West, ¾«Æ·SMÔÚÏßӰƬ (through Venture Partners at ¾«Æ·SMÔÚÏßӰƬ, part of ¾«Æ·SMÔÚÏßӰƬ’s Research & Innovation Office) offers hands-on regional I-Corps programs open to researchers, faculty, students and staff from any discipline or institution.Ìý

That programming begins with the introductory three-week Starting Blocks Customer Discovery Workshop and advances through the four-week Research-to-Market (R2M) Customer Discovery Program. Teams are then primed to pursue theÌý National I-Corps Teams Program, where they can win a $50,000 grant.Ìý

Through I-Corps, you will:

• Conduct customer discovery to understand market needs and pain points.
• Assess the commercial potential of your idea in a supportive environment.
• Develop the commercialization mindset needed to move your innovation forward.

Real results, real impact

I-Corps has helped countless entrepreneurs and nontraditional innovators take their first steps toward commercialization. Participants leave with a clearer understanding of their innovation’s market potential and a roadmap for next steps, whether that means pursuing funding through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) programs or the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), applying for the National I-Corps program where teams can further advance their innovation and win $50,000, or connecting with industry partners for licensing opportunities.

¾«Æ·SMÔÚÏßӰƬ companies like PAGE Technologies,ÌýMesa Quantum ²¹²Ô»åÌýVitro3D began their journey with customer discovery and market validation—essential skills gained through I-Corps programming.Ìý

How I-Corps fits into the path to commercialization

I-Corps and Venture Partners empower CU innovators to take the lead in translating their discoveries into real-world applications, providing guidance and opportunities to support your journey, whether you want to launch a startup, collaborate with industry or license your technology.

Entrepreneurship isn’t for everyone. Venture Partners can also help connect you with industry partners or experienced entrepreneurs who can drive commercialization forward on your behalf—ensuring that your discoveries make an impact without requiring you to leave academia.

Whether your journey leads to licensing agreements, starting your own venture or collaborations with entrepreneurs, Venture Partners helps ensure your success.

Take the first step today

Your work at CU could be the foundation for the next groundbreaking innovation. NSF I-Corps and Venture Partners are here to help you explore your innovation’s potential. With no prior experience required and a supportive, inclusive environment, there’s no better way to begin your journey.

Learn more and apply to the I-Corps program here. Whether you’re ready to disclose an innovation or simply want to explore the possibilities, I-Corps is your stepping-off point for turning ideas into impact.
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