Ignite Cornell Lab to Market
Ignite Cornell Lab to Market from Cornell University advances promising research innovations toward commercialization and startup creation through funding, mentorship, and entrepreneurial support.
Funder: Cornell University
Due Dates: April 27, 2026 (Ignite Innovation Acceleration) | February 19, 2027 (Ignite Fellow for New Ventures)
Funding Amounts: Up to $50,000 per project (Innovation Acceleration); ~$120,000/year per fellow (Fellow for New Ventures); up to $75,000 for Startup Projects.
Summary: Gap funding and support for advancing Cornell research innovations toward commercialization, startup formation, or industry partnerships.
Key Information: For Cornell-affiliated innovators; technology disclosure to CTL required.
Description
Ignite Cornell Lab to Market is a gap funding initiative managed by the Center for Technology Licensing (CTL) at Cornell University. The program accelerates the commercialization of academic research and innovation by supporting promising technologies and inventions that show significant commercial potential but are not yet ready for licensing or investment. Through several signature programs—Innovation Acceleration, Fellow for New Ventures, and Startup Projects—Ignite provides critical resources to move inventions toward licensing, startup formation, or industry partnerships, while fostering entrepreneurship and career development for students and researchers. The initiative aims to expand Cornell’s innovation pipeline, drive venture creation and growth, and enhance the societal impact of Cornell research.
