About the Program

Testing the Commercial Potential of Research and Ideas

Supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation, the Polsky I-Corps program enables UChicago scientists, researchers, faculty and students to test the commercial potential of their research and ideas.

In 2014, the Polsky Center received a grant to run a local Polsky I-Corps program to prepare scientists and engineers to extend their focus beyond the university laboratory and accelerate the economic and societal benefits of NSF-funded, basic-research projects that are ready to move toward commercialization.

Program Details

Benefits

  • Education: Hands-on training and entrepreneurial education delivered by world-class faculty members from Chicago Booth and experienced Polsky Center staff.

  • Mentorship: Individual sessions with coaches who are focused on making introductions, providing feedback, and supporting the
    project’s customer discovery process.

  • Funding: Micro-grant funding to advance early-stage projects.

  • Networking: Opportunities to interact with faculty, Polsky staff, and other scientists, researchers, and entrepreneurs.
  • Special Recognition: Designation as an NSF-funded project, leading to further opportunities for training and funding through the national I-Corps program and SBIR/STTR programs.

Program Format

The Polsky I-Corps program includes four in-class sessions and outside field work, including 30 interviews with potential customers.

The Application Process

Who Should Apply

The Polsky I-Corps program is open to UChicago faculty, researchers, students, staff, and alumni as well as participants from partner institutions and regional universities. Only individuals and teams working on projects in the science, technology, mathematics, and engineering (STEM) fields are eligible. A background in business or entrepreneurship is not required.

QUESTIONS?

Visit icorps.uchicago.edu or contact Lucas Peralta, associate director at lperalt0@uchicago.edu

Learn more about the Polsky Center at: polsky.uchicago.edu