Statewide Advisor Network to Support Commercialization of DU Inventions, Research

 DENVER—The University of Denver Office of Technology Transfer has formed a partnership with the Innovation Center of the Rockies (ICR) to help commercialize inventions and intellectual property developed by DU researchers in a variety of fields and areas of specialized academic research.

A non-profit organization, the ICR was chosen after a national search in part because of its roster of volunteer mentors and advisors who will help find pathways to market for DU technology.  The organization will provide a program manager who will work closely with DU researchers and the University’s Technology Transfer Office to translate highly technical material into understandable language, identify potential commercial utility, and work with the mentoring team.

“The University of Denver has a talented faculty and rich culture of research innovation,”   says Cathryn Potter, associate provost for research at the University of Denver.  “We’re looking forward to working with the ICR to take our commercialization process to the next level.”

The Innovation Center of the Rockies has existing relationships with the University of Colorado, the Colorado School of Mines and Colorado State University.

“Working with the ICR will help DU strengthen its partnerships with these local institutions,” says Carley Pavelka, director of DU’s Office of Technology Transfer.  “We are excited to increase our contribution to Colorado’s robust culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.”

“DU’s specialized research strategy provides high-caliber undergrads tremendous career and business opportunities in a wide variety of markets including diagnostics, drug development, electronics, robotics, energy and aerospace,” says Tim Bour, ICR executive director. “We’re looking forward to working with DU to further expand what has become one of the nation’s largest entrepreneurial support networks here within Colorado’s academic and research communities.”

-30-

About the Innovation Center of the Rockies
Founded in 2005, the Innovation Center of the Rockies is one of America’s premier entrepreneurial support organizations. With its highly specialized team of mentors and advisers, the ICR defines a new model for business incubation across key industry sectors holding the most promise for the community, global economies and the environment. Located in one of the most dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystems for early-stage companies, the ICR blends the resources of business and academia to optimize opportunities for the technologies and companies of the future. For more information, please visit: www.innovationcenteroftherockies.com.

About the University of Denver
The University of Denver is committed to improving the human condition and engaging students and faculty in tackling the major issues of our day. DU ranks among the top 100 national universities in the U.S. For additional information, go to www.du.edu/newsroom.

Primary Contact:  Jordan Ames, DU
Office:  (303) 871-2781
Mobile:  (720) 231-0267
E-mail: jordan.ames@du.edu

Alternate Contact: Tim Bour, ICR
Office:  (303) 444-2111
E-mail:  tim@innovationcenteroftherockies.com