NSF I-Corps

Are you working on research or technology that touches Earth’s water resources?

Registration is now open for a free virtual I-Corps Spark program, hosted by the New England Region I-Corps Hub. This sector-specific cohort is designed to support Blue Tech innovations. Whether your work focuses on deep-ocean robotics, advanced sensing, maritime propulsion, blue biotech, or climate resilience, this program provides the framework to explore translating your technology from the lab to the market.

This program will help you validate your problem-solution fit, stress-test your commercial assumptions, and build a strong foundation. Completing this program significantly strengthens your applications for future accelerator programs and funding opportunities – including potential eligibility for a $50,000 NSF I-Corps award.

Program Expectations & Key Dates: All sessions are via Zoom

Kick-off Workshop: Thursday, October 1, 2026, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM ET
Office Hours: Two mentoring sessions (scheduled between the kick-off and lessons learned)
Customer Discovery: Conduct 12 customer interviews over the month
Lessons Learned Workshop: Thursday, October 29, 2026, 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM ET Program

Highlight: This cohort features a special panel focused on Blue Tech innovation resources to help support your next steps.

Total Time Commitment: Expect roughly 15–20 hours total over the course of October (covering workshops, coaching, and customer interviews).

If your research or technology touches any part of Blue Tech, this cohort is for you!

Learn more and apply by visiting the New England Region I-Corps Hub website: https://neicorps.org/. Email sarah_biester@brown.edu with any questions. The application closes September 23rd at midnight.

Register Here: https://neicorps.org/calendar_event/hub-spark-online-10-2-3-2-3-3-2-3-2-2-3-2-3-2-2-2/