INNOVATION INCUBATOR: Flaming the Sparks of Creativity

University Of Arkansas, Fayetteville AR

Investigators

Abstract

0090596 Loewer This award is to the University of Arkansas to support the activity described below for 36 months. The proposal was submitted in response to the Partnerships for Innovation Program Solicitation (NSF 0082). Partners The partners in this award include the University of Arkansas; several venture capitalists; Arkansas Science and Technology Authority. Proposed Activities The activities in this award are creation of business start-ups at the campus incubator; advancing discovery and education in microelectronics and photonics; technology transfer; providing technical and business expertise to start-up companies. Proposed Innovation The innovation goals include providing the infrastructure to fill the gap between university research and commercialization in the form of an on-campus incubator in nano and microelectronics and photonics, and education of students in entrepreneurial activities. Potential Economic Impact The potentials economic impacts include increased success for small start-up ventures because of nurturing of small companies by faculty expertise; a workforce trained in entrepreneurial activities; an active partnership between the schools of engineering and business. The number of small businesses and jobs in the region will increase. Potential Societal Impact Small firms will be able to utilize the resources of the university including space, facilities, faculty and students. The workforce in the region will become technologically literate and have more jobs available for their skills. The number of african-american graduates in science and engineering will increase.