VIPC’s Higher Education Proof-of-Concept (HE POC) program helps Virginia’s colleges, universities, and nonprofit research institutes advance promising technologies toward market readiness. Through $75,000 and $150,000 grants, HE POC supports early validation, customer discovery, and prototype development to strengthen the path from research to real-world impact. Two solicitations will be offered each year. Applications are being accepted through April 30, 2026.
Lab-to-Launch unlocks innovation in Commonwealth by accelerating university research commercialization and technology transfer. In an effort to double the number of startups spun out from Virginia’s six R1 research universities, this initiative will create Virginia’s first standardized Fast-Track License agreement to propel technology breakthroughs to market, while also expanding opportunities to connect with talent and capital from the private sector. Up to $50,000 is available to companies licensing technology from one of these universities using the Fast-Track License agreement. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
VIPC’s Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) program accelerates university innovation in Virginia by pairing experienced entrepreneurs with research institutions to advance high-potential technologies toward commercialization. Through hands-on collaboration with faculty, students, and technology transfer leaders, EIRs help launch and grow technology-driven startups across the Commonwealth. Up to $250,000 is available to qualifying universities in support of their EIR efforts through June 30, 2027. Applications are not currently being accepted. Stay tuned for FY28 opportunities.
Virginia offers a wealth of resources to help university researchers and innovators accelerate commercialization. Explore VIPC’s Resources page to find statewide funding, mentoring, and partnership opportunities beyond VIPC’s own programs.