Ignite Cornell Lab to Market
Ignite Cornell Lab to Market by Cornell University funds and supports researchers to turn innovative scientific discoveries into commercially viable technologies and startups.
Funder: Cornell University
Due Dates: April 27, 2026 (Ignite Innovation Acceleration) | February 19, 2027 (Ignite Fellow for New Ventures)
Funding Amounts: Innovation Acceleration: Up to $50,000 per project (12–16 awards/year); Fellow for New Ventures: ~$120,000 per fellow/year (3–6 fellows/year)
Summary: Gap funding and entrepreneurial support to accelerate commercialization of Cornell research innovations and foster technology-based startups.
Key Information: Technologies must be disclosed to Cornell’s Center for Technology Licensing; eligibility limited to Cornell affiliates.
Description
Ignite Cornell Lab to Market is a gap funding and commercialization initiative managed by the Center for Technology Licensing at Cornell University. It provides targeted financial support and entrepreneurial resources to advance promising technologies developed within the Cornell research community. The program aims to bridge the gap between academic research and market-ready solutions, helping researchers validate commercial potential, reduce risk, and launch new technology ventures. Ignite supports multiple tracks, including direct innovation acceleration grants, fellowships for entrepreneurial scientists and engineers, and early-stage startup funding.
