Gain hands-on experience and expert mentorship while developing the critical skills needed to commercialize new technologies. Launching in Fall 2025, the Commercializing New Technologies Academy is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to turn innovative ideas into market-ready ventures. This immersive experience emphasizes experiential learning, collaboration, and real-world application to prepare students for the challenges of launching and scaling a business.

Benefits of the academy:

  • Direct mentorship and networking with industry experts and successful entrepreneurs
  • Hands-on experience in technology commercialization, market research, and financial analysis
  • Training in leadership, execution planning, and investor pitching
  • Access to cutting-edge AI tools and frameworks for strategic decision-making
  • Recognition for your achievements and a compelling experience to showcase to future employers and investors

Commercializing New Technologies I (CNTA I) - Fall Semester, course offered T/Th 3:30-4:45pm
Through case studies, expert speakers, and lectures with Lee Eilers, participants will refine their leadership skills and gain a deep understanding of the commercialization process. Topics covered include:

  • The key challenges of bringing new technology to market
  • Skillful customer discovery, market validation, and financial modeling
  • Strategies for creating and executing a go-to-market plan

Commercializing New Technologies II (CNTA II) – Spring Semester
Building on foundational knowledge, participants will work in teams to develop and pitch a commercialization strategy. Under the guidance of experienced entrepreneurs, students will:

  • Create a comprehensive execution plan for launching a new venture
  • Apply market research and financial analysis to assess feasibility
  • Pitch their business to investors in a live setting for real-world experience

The experience gained through the Commercializing New Technologies Academy will be invaluable throughout your career, equipping you with the skills and insights to stand out in the marketplace.

In the second course, Commercializing New Technology II, student teams will develop a formal technology commercialization plan for the university-based discovery; teams will be assigned entrepreneurial mentors, interact with industry experts, and engage with potential customers and partners. Students will experience first-hand what entrepreneurs go through when developing and presenting a business plan to angel investors and venture capitalists.

Applications for Fall 2025 Now Open!

Eligibility Criteria

  1. Senior standing for the 2025-26 academic year (May 2026 graduation); select juniors considered.
  2. On-campus student. 

Application Components

As part of the application for CNTA, students will be asked to submit the following:

  1. Personal statement (500-600 words): What interests you in joining the Commercializing New Technology Academy? What do you hope to gain from this experience, and how do you plan to apply the skills you acquire to bringing new technologies to market and launching successful ventures?
  2. Updated professional resume (one page max)

As part of the application process for the Commercializing New Technologies Academy, students will complete an interview with Lee Eilers. When filling out the application, you will be asked to provide your availability for an interview during the week of March 24.

Deadline to apply: Rolling (applications will close once all spots are filled)

Contact Courtney McClellan with any questions regarding the application.

APPLY NOW