How do you want to become Tech Forward?
U.S. National Science
Foundation & Illinois Tech
Illinois Institute of Technology has received a significant investment of $6 million from the United States National Science Foundation (NSF) under its Accelerating Research Translation (ART) program.
Through the ART program, TechForward - partnership between Illinois Tech and the University of Chicago - will foster market-focused research and develop a more diverse workforce in high-growth technology sectors. The initiative is a collaborative effort, incorporating industry professionals and faculty in Chicago’s tech ecosystem, focusing on translating research for societal benefit and speeding up technology transfer.
Helping You Break Into Tech
We invite underrepresented individuals from our community to engage with us through free training seats, leadership roles in startups, part-time tech scout positions, and providing market feedback on research assets.
Empowering All Learners
We connect Chicago’s tech ecosystem with students, professionals, and the wider community—including non-degree seekers—to foster innovation and address societal challenges.
Bringing Your Research to Life
We focus on transforming your groundbreaking research into practical solutions, accelerating commercialization, and ensuring innovations make a tangible impact. We can help you disclose your invention, apply for STRP funding, and more!
FAQs
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Start by exploring the opportunities that fit your goals. Looking to break into tech? Inquire about a free seat to our Deep Tech Commercialization course (eligibility varies), explore leadership roles within a participating startup/research project, or apply to become a tech scout. Interested in learning? We offer training and learning initiatives that connect you to Chicago’s tech ecosystem, whether you're a student, professional, or non-degree seeker. Have research that you’d like to translate? No matter what phase you’re in, we can help transform your ideas into market-ready solutions.
Hover over “Get Started” in the main navigation and choose the option that best suits you whether that’s learning, translating your research, or exploring career opportunities.
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If your project is eligible for funding, follow these steps:
Declare your intent: By September 9th, 2024, submit an interest form. We encourage you to also submit an invention disclosure tied to your project.
Complete the application: By December 11th, 2024, submit your full application, ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria, including having a clear commercialization plan and a diverse team.
Prepare for evaluation: If selected as a finalist, you’ll pitch your proposal to the selection committee in March 2025.
For detailed instructions and eligibility requirements, click here!
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Generally, inventions created using university resources or within the scope of your employment at the university are owned by the university. This allows the university to manage and protect the intellectual property effectively.
For more information about the invention disclosure process, click here!
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Other than making sure you and your team have the passion and bandwidth to go on this journey, it’s important to find a problem you care about that’s worth solving.