Spark Program
To help researchers, scientists, and engineers explore the potential applications of their new technologies or research, BU Technology Development is partnering with the NE I-Corps at MIT to offer BU researchers a three-week program consisting of two workshops from the National Science Foundation called Spark.
About the Program
Open to BU faculty, PhDs, or postdoctoral associates, the program includes two online group meetings, two team-focused office hour calls, and independent work through which participants will learn an immersive customer discovery experience that has been proven to significantly strengthen grant proposals, including highly competitive SBIR/STTR funding. This program is not limited to patented technologies. All ideas are welcome from all schools and departments across BU. Program capacity is limited, so we recommend applying as early as possible to secure a spot. Individuals and teams may apply.
Created in 2011 by the National Science Foundation, the goal of the NSF Innovation (I-Corps) program is to reduce the time and risk associated with translating promising ideas and technologies from the laboratory to the marketplace. I-Corps uses experiential learning of customer and industry discovery, coupled with first-hand investigation of industrial processes, to quickly assess the translational potential of inventions. This program will be conducted by the New England Regional Innovation Node at MIT.
Program Benefits
- Entrepreneurial Training
- Potential for up to $50,000 in NSF I-Corps grants
- Increased chances of getting a future SBIR/STTR
Whether you are just curious about entrepreneurship or certain you want to create a startup, our programs provide engineers and scientists with the ideal entry point to explore the potential value of their research or innovation.
Testimonials from BU Faculty Participants
- “With what I have learned, I can never go back to the way I approached my research.”
- “We thought we’d go into the healthcare market – it was obvious. After the program we realized we needed to pivot into the Vet space.”
- “Before the Program, I knew that our tech was interesting and can have potential in many applications and I also had an understanding that the tech transfer will take time. I did not know that I need to talk to so many people. After the program, I have a more clear idea about what are the important things to move forward.”
Upcoming Cohorts
View upcoming cohort dates on the programs on the program page under “Upcoming Spark Courses @ MIT.”
Learn More & Apply
We are accepting applications on rolling basis. We recommend applying as soon as possible, as spots are limited!
Learn how the program works: NE I-Corps Spark Program. Send questions to icorps@mit.edu.