NSF I-Corps Program

The National Science Foundation Innovation Corps (I-Corps™) program equips scientists and engineers with the tools to extend their research beyond the laboratory and accelerate the commercialization of cutting-edge, NSF-funded innovations. By engaging extensively with potential customers, teams validate the real-world applications of their technology and avoid creating solutions that lack market demand—a key reason for startup failure.

The immersive 7-week curriculum combines online instruction with on-site activities, challenging teams to conduct at least 15 customer interviews per week. By the end of the program, each team will have connected with over 100 potential customers, gaining invaluable insights to guide their commercialization journey.

Apply Now

Program Benefits

Participants in the I-Corps program gain:

A deep understanding of their technology’s value and its target audience.
Insights into previously unexplored markets for their innovation.
Awareness of the challenges and requirements for technology commercialization.
Access to a robust network of peers, mentors, investors, and industry leaders.
A fast-tracked approach to commercialization, saving time, money, and resources.
Support from NSF-Certified I-Corps instructors and a $50,000 grant to fund their efforts.

Team Composition Requirements

Entrepreneurial Lead (EL):

Responsible for conducting customer discovery interviews and presenting on behalf of the team.
Typically, a graduate student, Ph.D. candidate, or postdoc.
Must commit ~40 hours per week during the 7-week program.

Technical Lead (TL)/Principal Investigator (PI):

Ensures the team meets grant requirements.
Typically, a faculty member or another lab researcher.
Supports the EL and commits ~15 hours per week, with additional time during kickoff and finale weeks.

Industry Mentor (IM):

Provides insights into the industry landscape and helps manage confirmation bias during interviews.
Facilitates connections with industry stakeholders.
Commits ~15 hours per week, with additional time during kickoff and finale weeks.

Eligibility Requirements

Teams must meet the following criteria to apply:

NSF Lineage:

Prior NSF research grant, or
Successful completion of a regional/local I-Corps program.

Technology Innovation:

A deep technology or STEM-based innovation.
Ownership or rights to the Intellectual Property (via team members or the sponsoring university).

Customer Discovery Readiness:

Completed at least 20 customer discovery interviews before applying.
Willingness to conduct 100+ customer interviews during the 7-week cohort.

Commitment:

Attendance at all cohort meetings and adherence to program requirements.

Application Process

Understand Program Requirements:

Review participation details, dates, FAQs, and attend an introductory webinar.

Submit Application:

Apply HERE.

Obtain Letter of Support:

Request a letter from the regional/local I-Corps program director or instructor familiar with your team.
Use the provided TEMPLATE.

Prepare an Executive Summary:

Draft your summary using the TEMPLATE.
Request a preparation interview by emailing Nakia Melecio (nakia.melecio@venturelab.gatech.edu) or Keith McGreggor (keith.mcgreggor@gatech.edu).

Attend Preparation Interview:

Submit your letter of support and executive summary beforehand.
Discuss your technology’s readiness, market impact, and team qualifications with the I-Corps Application Support Team.

Address Feedback:

Refine your application based on guidance from the I-Corps Application Support Team.

Screening Interview with NSF Program Officer:

Participate in this critical step. The application process is typically completed in under 30 days.

Submit Proposal:

If invited, submit your proposal in response to Solicitation 21-552.