We serve 330 UW faculty, staff and student innovators and grant over $1.4 million in funding annually. We’ve helped launch or grow over 150 startups.

Innovation and Commercialization Mentors

Amar Anumakonda, PhD

Tech-focused business leader with a passion for addressing global problems in energy and environment. Industry experience in innovation and commercializing game-changing technologies.

Aimee Arnoldussen, PhD

Cognitive neuroscientist with expertise in medical and assistive technologies. Start-up, healthcare, research funding and FDA.

Abram Becker

Expertise in commercial strategy for pharmaceuticals, biotech, medical devices, and diagnostics. Start-up, non-profit, & Fortune 500 experience.

Cecily Brose, MS

Expertise in consumer product development and commercialization. Led innovation platforms in the food industry.

Upcoming Programs and Events from the Innovate Network

News from the Innovate Network

Three scientists share Industry and Entrepreneurship award for startup efforts

Phenolvation seeks to commercialize plant-based painkillers and other products: Abundant but chemically complex, lignin has long been one of the biggest challenges in the quest to produce economically viable plant-based fuels. Now an enterprising group …

UW–Madison research helps launch first FDA-cleared blood test for Alzheimer’s disease

In a crucial advancement for Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted clearance for an Alzheimer’s disease blood test on May 16, 2025. The test is an in vitro diagnostic (IVD) …

Exact Sciences’ Conroy: University research made Cologuard possible

Exact Sciences Corp. Chairman and CEO Kevin Conroy delivered a message about the company’s scientific and business journey Thursday, describing it as an evolution that may not have happened without federally funded university research. Conroy, …