HCEP focuses on very early stage business development. Through our University and other contacts, we identify individuals with promising ideas that are at the research stage but may have potential business application. Often the research team has demonstrated the potential value to the market and they are looking for guidance from business development experts on how to evaluate the business potential. HCEP staff provide this advice and, if the decision is made to proceed, help them initiate and manage the business incubation process.

HCEP has helped to launch companies like VTI, now part of GE. The founding CEO of VTI developed the initial concept for this image-guided surgical device company during his fellowship with the HCEP team. With their assistance in helping to resolve critical business structure and product development issues, private funding was obtained to start the company.

HCEP incubation assistance may include market research to determine the optimal product development and marketing strategy, identifying potential clients and business partners, and helping to structure and manage business and funding relationships.

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