A student-built drone platform becomes the foundation of a growing company after customer discovery revealed a major opportunity in the power industry.
For Amie Norton, I-Corps was not about launching a startup right away. It was about understanding whether her research could translate into meaningful use outside of academic settings. https://youtube.com/shorts/oMonSHN_dEU?feature=share Entering the program as a faculty researcher, Amie wanted to explore how a laboratory-based technology might move toward application. Through I-Corps, she gained tools to test assumptions, engage potential customers,
Behind every successful I-Corps team is a network of experienced professionals helping founders validate assumptions, navigate uncertainty, and move research closer to practical application. Industry mentors play a critical role in bridging the gap between new technologies and commercialization by bringing practical insight, market knowledge, and valuable connections to the I-Corps team. How Mentors Support Teams Industry mentors provide teams
When Ilios Aerospace entered the NSF I-Corps program, their idea was clear: design a light-sport aircraft that is more affordable, easier to manufacture and assemble. What wasn’t clear? Who their customer really was and what they wanted. Like many startups, Ilios Aerospace began with a technology-first mindset. Pedro Cupertino, aerospace engineer and entrepreneurial lead, admits that his initial approach was
Every year, the NSF Great Plains I-Corps Hub works toward a singular goal to ensure that research does not stop at discovery. The goal is to help ideas move beyond the lab and into the world where they can create economic activity and expand opportunities across the Midwest. In 2025, that work continued across six states and eleven universities, and
The number one reason startups fail isn’t lack of funding or poor marketing. Startups often fail because they build something that no one wants. That truth can sting, especially when you’ve poured your time and energy into a business idea. But it’s also why the I-Corps process is so powerful. It forces us to pause, step back, and ask the
Summer tends to bring a natural pause to the academic and professional hustle. Calendars ease up, meetings slow down, and for many researchers, entrepreneurs, and innovators, this quieter season can open the door to something important: time to focus. If you’ve been sitting on an idea—maybe it’s a research project with potential, a side concept you haven’t had the time
Steve Hanlon is a high-technology executive experienced in product development, operations, and senior management in the medical device sector. He has held Vice President of R&D, President, and CTO positions in both large and start-up organizations, and has enjoyed operating his own consulting company. He serves as the Director of the Health and Bioscience Innovation Hub at University of Wyoming.
We interviewed Dr. Amy Whitney, the core Lead Instructor for the Great Plains I-Corps Hub, to explore her insights and experiences in guiding teams through the journey of technology commercialization.
Ensure you have the right mix of skills and expertise on your team to experience the program’s full potential.