Starting a Company at URI
Turning research into a startup is exciting—and it comes with some important considerations. This page offers a starting point for faculty, students, and researchers navigating IP, conflicts of interest, and the resources and support available at URI.
Protect and Disclose Your Innovation
If your company will use university intellectual property (IP), begin with an invention disclosure to URI Innovations. This allows us to evaluate protection options, assess commercialization pathways, and explore licensing opportunities.
Submit an Invention Disclosure →Explore Commercialization Pathways
Not all ideas take the same route to market. Some technologies may be licensed to existing companies, while others are best advanced through new startup formation. URI Innovations can help you evaluate your options and connect you to training and mentorship opportunities.
Available Programs:
Manage Conflicts of Interest (COI)
Faculty and staff who found or hold equity in companies must disclose potential conflicts of interest. This ensures transparency and helps manage situations where university responsibilities overlap with personal financial interests.
Learn more about URI's COI Policy → Contact: Office of Research IntegrityBuild Your Startup Plan
As your company takes shape, you'll need to consider licensing terms, agreements, funding, and team development. URI Innovations and partners provide guidance and connections to help you succeed.
Our Support Includes:
Guidance on licensing and startup agreements
Access to entrepreneurship training and mentorship
Introductions to investors, accelerators, and incubators (RIHub, 401 Tech Bridge, RI Life Science Hub, Slater Technology Fund, and more)
Leverage Resources to Grow
URI-affiliated startups can tap into local, regional, and national resources to scale their ventures. Access funding opportunities, mentorship programs, and specialized facilities.
Available Resources:
- Funding opportunities like SBIR/STTR grants, seed funds, and state programs
- Mentorship and accelerator programs through RIHub, 401 Tech Bridge, and I-Corps
- Access to lab space, testbeds, and neutral prototyping facilities at URI and partner organizations
Faculty-Affiliated Startup Guide
Coming SoonLaunching a startup based on university research involves unique steps and considerations. Our upcoming guide will walk you through the essentials.
Connected Ecosystem
Access our network of resources and partner organizations to support your startup journey.
RIHub
Regional hub for innovation supporting high-growth entrepreneurs
RISE-UP
Regional innovation through dual-use technology development
NSF I-Corps
Customer discovery training and entrepreneurial support
RI Life Science Hub
Strengthening Rhode Island’s life sciences sector
Training & Resources
Learning materials and tools for your innovation journey
Programs & Initiatives
Comprehensive programs supporting innovation and entrepreneurship
Interested in Pitching at URI’s Annual Tech Showcase?
Each year, URI Innovations features startups, innovations, and student ventures at the URI Tech Showcase – next scheduled for September 2026. Startups based on URI intellectual property or affiliated with the university in any way (faculty, researchers, students, alumni) are encouraged to apply. Expressions of interest may be submitted year-round; however, for the 2026 Showcase, the priority deadline is May 14, 2026.
Featured Showcase Alumni & Highlights
Each year, the Tech Showcase highlights startups emerging from URI’s research community. Below are selected highlights from past showcases – representing technologies in ocean innovation, health and life sciences, materials science, AI, engineering, and more. These ventures reflect the impact of university-based innovation and the strength of the URI entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Questions? We're Here to Help.
Whether you’re ready to begin the startup process or exploring your options, our team is here to guide you through company formation and commercialization.
For Conflict of Interest questions: URI Office of Research Integrity
Get Involved
Whether you’re a researcher, entrepreneur, or industry partner, there’s a pathway for you to join URI’s innovation ecosystem.