Transform your discovery
I-Corps helps researchers explore how to transition discoveries into benefits for society.
Apply for Propelus I-Corps
Apply by Dec. 5, 2023 for our 4-week Propelus I-Corps program that will take place Jan. 9, 12, 19 and 26, 2024.
Apply by Jan. 22, 2024 for the program taking place in February of 2024.
View all programs
We host a variety of events and programs for innovators at all stages, whether you're far along in your innovation journey or you're just getting started.
Chart your path to innovation
- Explore the value of your discovery through this National Science Foundation (NSF)-sponsored program.
- Engage with mentors and experienced entrepreneurs.
- Accelerate your discovery’s impact through a startup or new venture.
Visit our programs page to discover how I-Corps can help you on your innovation journey.
Rutgers University student Sherifat Alaka illuminates fingerprint samples with a special light, while observed by Kimberlee Sue Moran, associate teaching professor and director of forensics. Rutgers is one of two partner institutions in the new Innovation-Corps (I-Corps) Northeast Hub hub funded by the National Science Foundation to foster startups based on university research. Photo credit: ©2020 Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
Why participate in I-Corps?
- Researchers build relationships and gain skills in an inclusive, welcoming environment.
- All programs are free.
- Participants in our Propelus I-Corps four-week program receive a $3,000 grant.
- Promising ventures may continue to NSF's national I-Corps program and win a $50,000 small business grant.
- Program alumni become part of the I-Corps entrepreneurship ecosystem and have access to resources across the Hub-member institutions.
Events and Upcoming Regional Programs
- Jan 9, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
- Jan 12, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
- Jan 19, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
- Jan 26, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Apply by Dec. 5, 2023.
Our four-session Propelus program helps researchers explore the customer perspective to inform how a discovery or innovation can become the basis of a successful startup or venture.
- Feb 12, 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm
- Feb 15, 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm
- Feb 22, 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm
- Mar 7, 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Apply by Jan. 22, 2024
Our four-session Propelus program helps researchers explore the customer perspective to inform how a discovery or innovation can become the basis of a successful startup or venture.
- Apr 2, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
- Apr 5, 9:30 am – Apr 6, 12:30 pm
- Apr 12, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
- Apr 26, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Apply by March 12, 2024
This four-session regional program is designed to empower and accelerate the entrepreneurial endeavors of underrepresented and marginalized communities. This initiative aims to provide a supportive ecosystem that nurtures diverse talent, fosters innovation, and promotes equitable access to resources and opportunities.
Sharing successes
PolyGone Systems co-founders Yidian Liu and Nathaniel Banks were selected for Forbes 30 Under 30 Social Impact section. While studying architecture at Princeton, Liu and Banks developed a floating filter that captures the harmful microplastics present in waterways throughout the world.
Team members: Yidian Liu, Nathaniel Banks
I-Corps team Photonics secured the funding to move forward with prototyping their OLED metasurface technology. This includes Rutgers’ TechAdvance and NSF Partnership for Innovation funding, both awarded this summer, to develop different aspects of their OLED display technology.
Team member: Deirdre O'Carroll
I-Corps team Oceeto had their patent application published in May. This marks the first step in the agency's review process.
Team members: Andrea Hess, Austin Hess, Pedro Moore
Did you attend the I-Corp Northeast Hub Novus or Propelus?
The I-Corps Northeast Hub
The NSF I-Corps Hub: Northeast Region is made up of ten universities, with new partner institutions added annually. Note: Participants in Hub programs do NOT need to be affiliated with a Hub member university.
I-Corps Northeast Map
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