Innovation Advisor network promotes startup success through meaningful guidance
Just as startups strive to develop into bigger and better versions of themselves, so does UCI Applied Innovation and the programs and resources it offers entrepreneurs. One such program that has undergone an evolution is the network of business leaders who volunteer their time to mentor UCI-affiliated startups.
Introduced as the Experts-in-Residence (EiR) program, the newly named Innovation Advisors network program has been rebuilt with every aspect revamped to better serve startups.
“The EiR program has seen continued success since its inception,” said Matt Hanson, director of New Ventures at UCI Applied Innovation. “And we are building upon that success to reinvigorate the program and make it even more effective for our entrepreneurs.”
The Innovation Advisors will continue to be an assembly of business leaders, but they will now have expanded roles and recognition.
Under the supervision of the Innovation Advisor manager, Innovation Advisors will mentor and coach UCI-affiliated startups. They will offer guidance on the patentability and commercial potential of startups’ intellectual property, review grant proposals, present at workshops and events, and serve as competition judges. These members bring business-to-business and business-to-consumer experience from industries ranging from high-tech to high-touch, and in areas including finance, operations, human resources, marketing, law, and more.
Furthermore, Innovation Advisors will have the opportunity to serve on the newly formed Innovation Advisors Council, which will recommend strategies and tactics to continuously improve the Innovation Advisors network as well as other Applied Innovation programs and services.
With this new evolution, the Innovation Advisors network is poised to give entrepreneurs their best chances at success.