Discovery to Commercialization Program for Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment (D2C: SAPT)

Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD

Investigators

Abstract

There has been critical underinvestment in addressing the Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) problem. We continue to rely on the same ineffective approaches. In this proposal, we promote and support disruptive innovations to stem the rising tide of SUDs. Such disruptions arise from clinician-scientists who are treating and researching SUDs yet are unaware of, or do not see value in, commercializing their ideas. Our overarching goals are to encourage more scientists to think entrepreneurially and to provide access to the resources they need for commercializing their ideas. Through our proposed tasks, we will develop and deliver entrepreneurship education specifically tailored for basic scientists to empower them with the tools for their commercialization journeys to advance the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of SUDs (Aim 1). The Innovation for Substance Use Disorders (I4SUD) curriculum will be scientifically developed, implemented, and evaluated during this 5-year grant. The cornerstone of the proposed initiative is a new Certificate in Entrepreneurship at Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School (Aim 2). This program leverages our deep experience teaching entrepreneurship to scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine to customize content for SUD researchers. The asynchronous online modules developed for the certificate program will be widely distributed (Aim 1). Through our educational efforts, we will intentionally build a community that can support the translation of discovery to market to change the trajectory of the SUD crisis in our nation (Aim 3). This is a specialized program for SUD researchers at all career levels, grounded in theoretical frameworks and complemented by professional education experiences related to entrepreneurial skills formation and community building. I4SUD will consist of three parts: asynchronous online learning modules covering topics in ideation, market discovery, intellectual property, regulatory strategy, revenue models, and business and financial modeling; an in-person multi-day workshop comprising observations in SUD clinics and recovery centers, conversations with stakeholders, designing and prototyping solutions; and mentoring by subject matter experts, culminating in a pitch competition. Program graduates will be equipped to apply for translational funding, patents, IP licensing, or startups. They will belong to a large virtual community of researchers and practitioners while contributing to healthcare entrepreneurship in their academic institutions. With a clear understanding of the gaps that exist in the SUD field, the possibilities for innovation, and the training process needed to help scientists move their discoveries to market, this program will significantly impact public health by facilitating the launch of projects that offer the next generation of solutions to SUD.