Technology Commercialization News & Announcements
Patent Roll Call: 2025
Congratulations to these UMN researchers who were awarded patents for their discoveries! In 2025, UMN researchers were issued 105 US patents (foreign patents not included).
University of Minnesota’s Technology Commercialization Office Surpasses 300 Startups Launched
The University of Minnesota reaches 300 startups since 2006, showcasing the Technology Commercialization office as a primary engine for translating research into real-world solutions.
Congress Reauthorizes Key Research Program for Small Businesses
The Small Business Innovation Research-Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) program was recently reauthorized for five years, until September 30, 2031, reopening a critical source of funding for University of Minnesota innovators seeking to commercialize their ideas and technologies through startup companies.
Special Call: Biological Innovations for Tech Comm Early Innovation Funds Spring 2026
Up to $10K in funding is available for short-term projects that advance early-stage biological innovations. All UMN researchers and employees are eligible, including faculty, postdocs, grad students, and staff. The application opens April 13.
Tech Comm Launches Funding Program for Software Startup Development
The competitive, two-phase funding program supports the creation and development of University of Minnesota startups in the software space. It is open to all faculty, staff, and students.
University of Minnesota Solidifies Global Standing as a Top-Tier Innovation Hub
The University of Minnesota secured the 34th spot worldwide for utility patents in 2025 by the National Academy of Inventors, reflecting a powerful research engine and commitment to technology commercialization.
Peer-to-Peer Innovation: Technology Commercialization Launches Ambassador Program
Technology Commercialization launches its Ambassador Program designed to help researchers navigate the commercialization process and turn lab discoveries into real-world products by leveraging the expertise of their peers.
U of M Professor Rethinks Computing to Solve AI's Energy Problem
U of M Professor Jian-Ping Wang is pioneering an in-memory computing breakthrough that addresses the AI energy crisis by reducing energy consumption by over 1,000 times.
U of M Startup Generator Boosts Local Economy
University of Minnesota’s Rick Huebsch highlights the Technology Commercialization office’s work in an interview with MPR News.