Guiding the Journey

from Innovation to Impact

The UWM Research Foundation helps UWM innovators move forward from early-stage research to entrepreneurial success. In 2024, we filed 11 new patent applications, funded five research projects and two startup companies, sparked the formation of four new startups, and supported others as they achieved exciting milestones. Our 2024 Annual Report highlights these and other impressive accomplishments from talented UWM researchers and entrepreneurs.

Can your research use a kick-start?

Supported by generous donors, Catalyst Grants provide up to $50K to seed promising UWM R&D projects that have commercial potential. The call for Catalyst abstracts is open now, and the due date is rapidly approaching.

2025 Timeline:

• January 27: Abstracts due (5:00PM)
• Mid-March: Invitations for full proposals
• April 21: Full proposals due (5:00PM)
• Mid-July: Notification of awards
• Early August: Award periods begins

Tell Us About Your Upcoming Student Symposia

Unintentional public disclosures can ruin chances to protect innovative intellectual property. To avoid this, we encourage symposia and poster session organizers to contact UWM Research Foundation long before the big day. We can scan abstracts or posters in advance for inventive work and advise on steps needed to protect it. We can also provide educational IP language to incorporate into symposia application instructions.

Date: Monday, April 7

Time: 5:00-6:30 pm

Location: LEC, American Family Dream Studio

Beverages and pizza provided

Ask, listen, discuss, repeat.

In these 10-minute one-on-one conversations, mentee innovators pinpoint areas where they need guidance and get tailored feedback from experienced mentors.