This information was taken from an email sent to UW–Madison employees on April 1.

Do you have an idea for an innovative product, service, or approach? Would you like to develop your research or technology into products or services?

UW’s Discovery to Product (D2P) offers connections to people, programs and resources to turn university research and ideas into impact. D2P programs and services are free and open to UW–Madison faculty, staff, students and employees of affiliate organizations in any school, college or discipline.

Funding Opportunity: 

Draper Technology Innovation Fund (TIF)
(Apply by May 15)
This fund supports additional research needed to bring new concepts and inventions to the patent and licensing stage. Applicants must be UW‒Madison faculty members or academic staff with an invention disclosure accepted by the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF). Learn more and apply.

Free Training Program: 

Innovation to Market
(Apply by May 19)
If you’re just getting started, the Innovation to Market program will give you the tools to develop your idea, test its viability and pivot, if necessary. The online summer session runs June 5-July 31. Learn more and apply.

More Programs this Fall:

Can’t attend Innovation to Market this summer? Innovation to Market will also be offered from Oct 9-Dec 4. The Igniter program is for those farther along in their journey and are ready to turn their research, technology, or idea into a product, service or process. Watch for fall dates soon. 

Expert Coaching:

Meet with expert mentors any time for free advice and guidance on advancing your innovation. D2P mentors are veteran business developers, entrepreneurs, product managers, and startup executives, with wide-ranging experience across disciplines, industries and products. You don’t have to be a current or past participant in a D2P program. Set up a mentor chat.

Learn More at Virtual Open Houses:

Meet D2P mentors and get an overview of training, mentoring and funding programs.

• Wednesday, April 10 (virtual): 4:30-5pm | Register
• Friday, April 12 (virtual): 12:30-1pm | Register
• Wednesday, May 8 (virtual): 4:30-5pm | Register
• Friday, May 10 (virtual): 12:30-1pm | Register

Questions? Contact D2P.