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Innovation Challenge: Entrepreneurship in the Sciences Forum

The Center for Scientific Excellence at Walsh University invites you to participate in a special innovation challenge as part of our annual Science and Business Innovation Summit. The winner will be awarded services valued at $10,000 to be utilized on premiere analytical chemistry services and/or technology commercialization services to accelerate the development of groundbreaking ideas, products or technologies.

Date: January 30, 2025

Location: Walsh University


About the Center for Scientific Excellence at Walsh University

The Center for Scientific Excellence (CSE) at Walsh University is a state-of-the-art analytical laboratory, focused on providing comprehensive, tailored analytical services and scientific consulting for clients. Our team of highly skilled and seasoned scientists employ advanced mass spectrometry, chromatography, and spectroscopy techniques, to deliver accurate and reliable results. Our suite of high‑tech instrumentation expands client access to chemical analyses, materials testing, and other specialized methods to drive innovation, and help solve complex problems.  The CSE brings specialized experience in Northeast Ohio’s hallmark industries, including soft materials, metals, and polymer coatings, providing a cost-effective innovation and solutions for complex problems.

About the Technology Transfer Office at Walsh University

The Technology Transfer Office at Walsh University was officially created in 2024 when Walsh hired Michael Haag M.S., M.B.A to become its Director of Entrepreneurship and Technology Transfer. Mr. Haag is an accomplished leader in technology transfer and innovation management with over 25 years of experience advancing commercialization in academic settings. Formerly the Executive Director of Technology Management at Case Western Reserve University, Michael managed a Technology Transfer Office that commercialized innovations from over $400 million in annual research. His leadership catalyzed the creation of more than 80 startups, multiple acquisitions, and IPOs, amassing over $325 million in exit value. Now, at the helm of Walsh’s Technology Transfer Office, Michael leverages his extensive expertise in startup development, venture funding, and industry partnerships to foster impactful innovation ecosystems and accelerate translational research initiatives.

About the Entrepreneurship in the Sciences Forum

The forum is designed to serve as a dynamic platform for entrepreneurs and startups to showcase their innovative ideas and technologies. Participants will have the chance to present to a distinguished panel comprising industry experts, investors, and academic professionals.

What’s In It For You?

The winner of the forum will receive either or both of:

Analytical chemistry support from the Center for Scientific Excellence (up to $10,000 of services), including but not limited to:

  • Research & development support
  • Analytical testing

Technology commercialization support from The Office of Cross Enterprise Initiatives (up to $3,000 of services of the full $10,000 award), including but not limited to:

  • Business strategy sessions
  • Review of business plan/marketing material
  • Contract review and comment

This invaluable support will significantly assist in advancing your technology and taking the venture to the next level.


How to Apply?

Interested companies are encouraged to apply by completing the application form.

Application for Entrepreneurship in the Sciences Innovation Challenge
Eligibility Requirements

This challenge is open to for-profit businesses that meet the U.S. Small Business Administration’s criteria for small business classification. Please note, this opportunity is not available to faculty or staff from higher education institutions unless they are affiliated with an established company holding the commercialization rights to the relevant invention.

For this competition, qualifying businesses must have fewer than 500 employees and typically under $2.25 million in annual sales. International corporations doing business in the United States are eligible to apply if they meet these size requirements.

Submission Instructions

Please complete and submit this form by January 13, 2025.

For any questions or additional Information, please contact Michael Haag at mhaag@walsh.edu or 216-544-7965.

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please input N/A for any required form fields you deem inapplicable to your submission. All applicants will be notified by January 20, 2025.

Company Details
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Business Information
Type of Business
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Project Information
(Please describe the project for which you are seeking analytical services. Limit your response to 500 words.)
(Describe what you expect to achieve with the help of the analytical services. Limit your response to 200 words.)
(List any specific analytical techniques, equipment, or expertise needed for your project.)
(What is the expected timeline for project completion?)
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I hereby declare that the information provided is true to the best of my knowledge and belief.
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