Startup Foundations: From Problems to Possibilities
Next Workshop: Wednesday, Nov. 12!
Join us for a three-part workshop series designed for UW–Madison researchers, faculty, students, and staff who want to explore entrepreneurship. This series is designed as a practical on-ramp for innovators at any stage, offering a hands-on way to build foundational skills and identify projects that may benefit from deeper D2P support.
Using your own idea, you’ll learn how to define the problem you are solving, uncover customer insights through interviews, and craft a compelling value proposition. Each session stands alone — attend one or join all three to build your skills and confidence in moving ideas from concept to impact.
Whether you are just getting started with an idea or well on your way to launch, campus innovators are invited to meet with our Innovation and Commercialization Specialists for free advice and guidance. Learn More »
Our training programs use the Lean LaunchPad framework to help you assess the desirability, feasibility, and viability of your idea, invention or discovery, and develop a roadmap to impact as a product, service or startup. Learn More »
Do you have an idea for an innovative product, service, or novel approach to a social problem? If you can dream it, D2P can help. Attend our virtual Open House to learn about D2P's programs and services. Learn More »
Discovery to Product administers three funding opportunities to support UW innovators—the Draper TIF, SEED and PRIME grants. Learn More »
D2P has helped launch or grow over 150 startups since 2014. Here are just a few of the innovative companies that we've assisted through programs and mentoring. Learn More »
D2P provides mentoring, tools, education, and funding to innovators and startups at UW–Madison. Learn about the people we help. Learn More »
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
- November
- November 12
- Parallel Lines: Quilts and the American LandscapeNovember 12, 10:00 am, Lynn Mecklenburg Textile Gallery, Nancy Nicholas Hall
Parallel Lines: Quilts and the American Landscape explores the parallel processes of quilt-making within the American home and place-making on the American landscape. Featuring nineteenth- and twentieth-century American quilts drawn from the Helen Louise Allen Textile Collection, the exhibit will examine some of the most familiar quilt forms – such as nine-patch squares, eight-pointed stars, and “log cabin” blocks with cloth strips radiating outward from a central square “hearth”.
- Parallel Lines: Quilts and the American LandscapeNovember 12, 10:00 am, Lynn Mecklenburg Textile Gallery, Nancy Nicholas Hall
Parallel Lines: Quilts and the American Landscape explores the parallel processes of quilt-making within the American home and place-making on the American landscape. Featuring nineteenth- and twentieth-century American quilts drawn from the Helen Louise Allen Textile Collection, the exhibit will examine some of the most familiar quilt forms – such as nine-patch squares, eight-pointed stars, and “log cabin” blocks with cloth strips radiating outward from a central square “hearth”.
News from the Innovate Network
UW-Madison wants to conduct more research with the Department of Defense
As the pot of federal funding for research at universities and colleges continues to shrink, UW-Madison’s campus leaders are positioning the university to grow its work with the Department of Defense. That doesn’t mean UW-Madison …
In the face of federal grant cuts, UW-Madison’s research head learns to pivot in her first year
Dorota Grejner-Brzezińska a year ago stepped into a top role at UW-Madison with big plans to expand its billion-dollar research operation. Then the executive orders poured in. Her plans had to change. “I remember driving …
UW primate lab names new director
The Wisconsin National Primate Research Center (WNPRC) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison appointed Ricardo Carrion Jr. as its next director on Oct. 23. Carrion will begin the role Nov. 3, 2025. Carrion brings more than two decades of biomedical-research …