NCInnovation Grants for University Research Commercialization
NCInnovation Grants support North Carolina university researchers in advancing proof-of-concept technologies to commercial readiness through milestone-driven funding.
Funder: NCInnovation
Due Dates: May 13, 2026 (Cycle 1 FY27 pre-application) | October 14, 2026 (Cycle 2 FY27 pre-application)
Funding Amounts: Typical awards range from $200,000 to $1,000,000 over two years; milestone-based, with funding released in tranches.
Summary: Supports North Carolina university researchers in advancing technologies from proof-of-concept to commercial readiness, bridging the gap between academia and industry.
Key Information: Lead applicants must be from UNC System universities; projects must be at TRL 3 or higher.
Description
NCInnovation’s grants are designed to accelerate the commercialization of research breakthroughs from North Carolina’s research universities. These milestone-based grants target the challenging “valley of death” in research and development, focusing on Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 3–6. The program aims to mature promising innovations so they can attract private investment, be licensed, or become the foundation for new startups, thereby driving economic growth and ensuring North Carolina’s universities remain leaders in innovation.
