BLOG Lessons Learned: Engaging Alumni for Research Commercialization

Many academic institutions want to enlist alumni to optimize their research commercialization efforts – whether it is to judge a pitch competition, discuss licensing opportunities, share entrepreneurial journeys with students, or even donate to a new venture or proof-of-concept fund. But what are the best practices in this area? We interviewed 7 universities and academic programs about their interactions in engaging alumni for research commercialization.  The individuals we interviewed at each organization had different roles within the research commercialization process – some were consultants, directors of incubators, or in new ventures, licensing, and corporate engagement offices.

Through these great conversations, a common thread emerged. Most universities initially interacted with their alumni by leveraging existing programs or resources while simultaneously learning best practices and pain points. They would then utilize these lessons to optimize these initiatives to the benefit of all. Luckily for us, these universities were more than happy to share some of the lessons they learned.

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