ThursDeal January: University Startup Pitch Event
January’s ThursDeal showcased two university spinouts already in motion—LumenAstra (University of Colorado) and Chromint-AI (Auburn University) demonstrating how a structured university startup pitch event creates feedback, introductions, and commercialization momentum.
Pitch Here: Funding for University Startups
ThursDeal is a new monthly pitch event, hosted by Summit Venture Studio, designed to help university- and research-
born technologies gain funding, visibility, and expert support from investors and commercialization partners.
How to Engage Your Community and Grow Impact
This blog post is based on a Midday Connect presentation by Candy Isabel, Founder & CEO of Khamai Strategies, who guides nonprofits and organizations in centering stakeholder voice to scale their impact. Drawing from her session, ‘How to Connect with the Community You Serve,’ this post shares actionable advice for founders on building authentic relationships with their communities. Learn how to listen first, co-create solutions, and build trust through transparency, consistency, and accountability.
Turning Research Into Startups: The Entrepreneur’s Guide to University Tech Transfer
This comprehensive guide walks founders through the university tech transfer journey—from finding and evaluating technologies to licensing and launching startups. Learn the process, access resources, and see how Summit Venture Studio helps entrepreneurs bring research to market faster.
Services Business vs Product Startup: What Every New Founder Needs to Know
Every founder faces the question: should I start with a services business or a product startup? This guide breaks down the pros, cons, and trade-offs of each approach to help new founders make a confident decision.
How to License University Technology for Startup Commercialization
Feedback builds deal flow. Licensing builds startups. Founders can strengthen their relationships with tech transfer offices by providing useful feedback when passing on opportunities, and by following a clear playbook when they decide to license a university technology for commercialization.
How to Evaluate University IP for Startup Potential
Founders often receive invention disclosures from universities—but how do you know if the IP is worth pursuing? This guide explains how to evaluate university IP for startup potential using a clear framework.
Your Guide to the Tech Transfer Office Process
The first two weeks with a university tech transfer office can set the tone for your whole engagement. Here’s what founders should expect, from intro calls to NDAs to project lists.
Working with a University Tech Transfer Office as a Founder
Approaching university tech transfer offices takes more than a cold email. This guide shows founders how to be clear, credible, and persistent to build real traction.
How to Find and Approach a Tech Transfer Office
Navigating university tech transfer can feel overwhelming. This guide shows entrepreneurs where to start—why alma mater connections matter, how to avoid outdated listings, and why a simple phone call often beats browsing online.