ABout DC I-Corps

DC I-Corps is a regional program designed to foster, grow and nurture an innovation ecosystem in the nation’s capital, the nearby states of Maryland and Virginia, and the mid-Atlantic region. The program is sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and jointly run by the University of Maryland, College Park, George Washington University, Virginia Tech, and Johns Hopkins University. The program provides real-world, hands-on training on how to successfully incorporate innovations into successful products. The ultimate goal is to create a new venture or licensing opportunity for program participants.

The DC I-Corps curriculum was developed, and is taught, by successful technology entrepreneurs. Each participant in the DC I-Corps program will engage extensively with industry. Over the course of several weeks, you will talk to a minimum of one hundred customers, partners, competitors, and other market stakeholders. During this time, you will be seeking a solid product-market fit and building a viable business model for your innovation. Along the way, you will address several fundamental questions:

• Who are your real customers?
• Why will customers buy products or services based on your technology?
• How will you get the product to your customers?
• How will you make money?
• How big is the potential market?
• Who are your competitors?

“This program is intended to solve a very difficult problem: going from science to a customer.”

David Hartman, Mentor-in-Residence, University of Michigan Technology Transfer Office

i-corps@umd.edu