The objective of the Commercialization Gap Fund Program is to expand the commercialization of USM technology. The funds are seed support for the development of innovations with commercial potential, with the result that more USM technology reaches the marketplace. The funding is intended to support a range of stages in technology development, to licensing and commercialization. This funding cannot be used for basic exploratory studies or as general funding for a PI’s lab. Existing industry connections are not a prerequisite for funding; however, all projects should have a clear commercial benefit or potential for the state of Maine. Interdisciplinary proposals are encouraged. Funding per project is expected to range from $10,000 to $75,000. All proposed projects must be designed to be completed within 12-18 months of the start of funding. Competition is open to all tenure-track or tenured faculty, research faculty, and other staff members for whom research and scholarship are assigned as one of their primary job responsibilities and have at least a 50% university appointment during the year of the project. Proposals will be reviewed by an Application Review Committee that is comprised of faculty and staff involved in economic development and commercialization activities at USM as well as representatives of the external community experienced in evaluating new technology.
To read the original article: Commercialization Gap Fund Program: Call for Proposals | University of Southern Maine
