Tech Scouts
Get trained as a Tech Scout and assess the market viability of new cutting-edge inventions and research.
Genisys Fellowship
Become a Genisys Fellow and help investors and startups assess how their innovations can thrive in today’s market.
Team Building Event
Let us help you match your talent with a researcher or startup looking to add members to their team!
Tech Scouts
Program Description
Learn to assess market viability
of cutting-edge research
This program selectively enrolls students from diverse disciplines, including technology, intellectual property, and marketing, and equips them with the essential skills to assess the market viability of cutting-edge research projects.
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Problem-Solution Validation: Master the process of validating the problem-solution fit for a wide range of innovations.
Technology Readiness Assessment: Learn to assess the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of research projects, an essential skill for securing grant funding.
Early-Stage Deep Tech Strategy: Develop a strategic mindset for early-stage technology commercialization and deep tech entrepreneurship.
Patentability and IP Knowledge: Understand the intricacies of patentability and intellectual property, crucial for future research endeavors.
Innovation to Startup:
Acquire the skills to develop early strategies for commercializing research and forming successful startups.
Participants will receive immersive, hands-on training that culminates in the development of an Innovation and Commercialization Essentials (IACE) Report. Several of these reports will be developed throughout the program for various inventions.
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This comprehensive report is a critical tool used by the Office of Technology Management and Licensing (TML), inventors, and the Kaplan Institute team to evaluate the commercial potential of research innovations.
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The IACE Report includes in-depth analyses across several key areas:
Problem-Solution Fit
Dimensional Risk Analysis
Market Size
Competitive Landscape
Intellectual Property
Technology Readiness
Regulatory Considerations
Existential Risks
Customer Validation
SWOT Analysis
Strategic Recommendations
Course Logistics
The Tech Scouts Program is a year-round opportunity, including summer sessions, with a commitment of 10-20 hours per week. Participants are compensated at the standard graduate hourly rate. Due to the program's highly selective and intensive nature, only three Tech Scouts are selected at a time.
If you are a STEM major interested in working with cutting-edge research, a business or marketing student eager to explore the commercialization of technology, or someone interested in careers related to intellectual property, law, or patent attorney roles, this program could be a perfect fit for you.
Want to learn more about how you can get involved?
Genisys Fellowship
Prepare for a successful career
in the venture capital industry
What is the Genisys Innovation Fellows Program?
This paid fellowship will be a part-time role open to 15 fellows who will conduct due diligence on commercialization plans for faculty research projects. Additionally, this program offers invaluable insights into technology, startups, intellectual property, and business, providing opportunities to engage with inventors and industry leaders.
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Market and Technical Evaluations
Identifying licensing opportunities
Patent analysis
Financial forecasting
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Technical Expertise
Gain in-depth knowledge of tech commercialization processes and due diligence practices.
Venture Capital Insight
Acquire practical experience and industry insights, preparing for successful careers in venture capital and related fields.
Industry Connections
Build a robust network of industry professionals, mentors, and peers, essential for career advancement.
Practical Training
Participate in practical training sessions that enhance problem-solving abilities and strategic thinking.
Diverse Community
Be part of an inclusive community that values diverse perspectives and experiences, fostering a supportive learning environment.
Career Discovery
Learn about different career paths such as project managers, innovation consultants, and tech commercialization specialists.
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This fellowship is open to all Illinois Tech Graduate students
The program runs from January 6 through March 7, 2025, with weekly standups, office hours, and consultations.
Fellows can expect to work an average of 10 hours per week on campus for that duration.
As a Genisys Fellow, you will be helping STRPs with:
Inclusive Tech Commercialization
Diverse Outreach and Engagement
Mentorship and Networks
Due Diligence
Comprehensive Evaluations
Data-Driven Decision Making
Interested in becoming a fellow?
Preparation for Venture Capital
Practical Experience
Communication and Relationship Building
Team Building Event
Find your dream team
What is the team building event?
Researchers and technologists can showcase their work, gain business insights, and network with students and alumni for potential collaborations or participation in the Kaplan Institute’s Pitch Tank Competition. Applications to become a presenter at the event are now open! Deadline to apply is October 6th at 5 PM.
How does this program benefit you?
Benefits for Students: Students can enhance their expertise in a specific field, actively engage in discussions, and demonstrate their business and academic skills. This involvement allows them to network with leaders and researchers, potentially leading to partnerships, depending on the needs of the startups or researchers.
Benefits for Researchers, Entrepreneurs, and Technologists: Researchers and technologists can showcase their work, gain business insights, and network with students and alumni for potential collaborations or participation in the Kaplan Institute’s Pitch Tank Competition.
Questions about participating in the event?