Industry & Partnership
Our researchers are solving some of the world’s greatest challenges. The University of Minnesota is a leader in driving innovation and fostering an ecosystem of entrepreneurship and engagement.
Sponsoring Research
We make it easier for business to partner with the U of M to transform discoveries into innovative solutions. Our Minnesota Innovation Partnerships (MN-IP) program improves access to University technology while reducing risk and cost.
Supporting Innovation
Technology Commercialization works with partners inside and outside the U of M, providing resources, support, and training to help researchers bring their inventions and ideas into the world.
Perry Hackett’s Sleeping Beauty Transposon System is a gene transfer platform that can be used to reprogram the human immune system to find and attack cancer cells. Last year, two biotech companies licensed a cancer treatment involving Sleeping Beauty to pharmaceutical company Merck for nearly $1 billion.
Learn about other entrepreneurial innovators recently honored for their achievements.
MnDRIVE
Partnering U research, the state, and industries to enhance quality of life and promote economic vitality.
MN-REACH
NIH-funded initiative to nurture innovators to develop high-priority technologies.
MIN-Corps
NSF-funded initiative to increase research-based technology commercialization capabilities and activities.
Starting a Company
The Venture Center helps to take the ideas and technology that stem from University research, prepare these technologies for the market, and launch new businesses around them.
Licensing Technology
We work closely with our partners on the licensing process to identify their unique needs and create the greatest value for all.
Economic Development Fellows Consulting Program
The Economic Development Fellows (EDF) Consulting Program connects local companies with graduate and professional students and postdocs seeking business consulting opportunities.
Interested in Partnering with the U?
For partners large and small from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, email frontdoor@umn.edu for help navigating the breadth and depth of the University.