From Incubation to Innovation 

A recent article published in Tech Connect showcases how for the past two decades, the University of Arizona Center for Innovation (UACI) has played a pivotal role in driving Southern Arizona's economic growth by supporting scalable science and technology startups. With a focus on transitioning innovations from the lab to the marketplace, UACI has become the leading incubator program in Arizona, currently nurturing over 70 startups, of which 62% are minority-owned. As UACI enters its third decade, it is expected to continue its catalytic role in innovation, projecting to create nearly 18,875 jobs, generate $600 million in wages, produce $1.5 billion in economic activity, and contribute nearly $85 million in state and local tax revenues over the next 30 years, thereby shaping a more innovative future for our region. 

Direct Air Capture Innovation Program 

UACI is launching a new Direct Air Capture (DAC) Innovation Program that provides access to an accelerated outcome-based virtual program that utilizes both online resources and live instruction. Guided by the established UACI roadmap, entrepreneurs can accelerate tech forward at an unprecedented pace. If you are interested in developing solutions for the DAC industry and joining the program, connect with our team. 

Arizona Innovation Challenge Finalists

UACI's current client, Macula Vision Systems, and UACI graduate Homer Farms emerge victorious in the Arizona Commerce Authority 2023 Arizona Innovation Challenge! Selected from a competitive pool of over 100 applicants, these two startups, among only ten winners, will now embark on a transformative journey to elevate their growth trajectories by connecting them with seasoned entrepreneurs, executives, and subject matter experts, guiding them through strategic workshops and panels over the next 12 months.

40 Under 40   

Casey Carrillo, Director of Strategic Partnerships for UACI, and 39 other powerful Tucson leaders were recently recognized for their professional success and contribution to the community. The 40 Under 40 event organized by Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce celebrated the emerging leaders and their impact on the community. Congrats to Casey and her accomplishments that advance the entrepreneurial ecosystem!

National Cocoa Day 

Amidst the entrepreneurial hustle at the UA Tech Park, National Cocoa Day offered a delightful divergence from the customary coffee routine. Complimentary hot cocoa was generously distributed, creating a pause for connection and an opportunity to appreciate the simple pleasures of the holiday season. This gesture not only provided a flavorful respite but also contributed to fostering a communal atmosphere, reminding entrepreneurs of the importance of celebrating the small joys amid their ambitious pursuits.

Startup Spotlight: Nymbus

The patented Nymbus Smart Concept platform enables musicians and live-music brand sponsors to transform one-time audience interactions into long-term relationships. In combination with data-tracking software, Nymbus Media wrist-band SMART Bracelets create interactive audience experiences with venue-wide light shows and clap-to-post technology instantly uploading concert exclusive content to attendees’ social feeds, boosting critical social engagement metrics. 

Sending Holiday Cheer

As the year comes to a close, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for being part of this incredible journey with us. Wishing you a joyful holiday season filled with warmth, laughter, and well-deserved moments of relaxation. May the coming year bring you even more success, growth, and opportunities. Happy holidays from all of us at the University of Arizona Center for Innovation.

EntrepreNEW Year's Party 2024

Celebrate the start of 2024 with fellow entrepreneurs & supporters for a EntrepreNEW Year's Party! Hosted by Startup Tucson and CIC, the party will include light appetizers, music, dancing, and an all-around good time to celebrate 2023 and ring in all the good things to come in 2024!

Connecting Innovators with

SBIR/STTR Funding

Are you a small business looking to fund your technology innovation? The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program funds startups and small businesses across technology areas and markets to stimulate technological innovation, meet federal research and development (R&D) needs, and increase commercialization to transition R&D into impact. UACI is providing specific support to applicants applying for SBIR and STTR related to solar power and waterpower technologies to help applicants prepare a successful submission.  

Arizona Photonics Days

Arizona Photonics Day returns to the UA Tech Park. Learn about new techniques and processes that expand the scope of optics and photonics technologies in industrial and commercial applications. Connect with your peers and industry leaders for technical presentations, industry trend discussions, and business-building opportunities with global attendees over three days.

DOE Lab MATCH Prize

The Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Technology Transitions Lab MATCH (Laboratory Making Advanced Technology Commercialization Harmonized) Prize is offering up to $620k in cash prizes and support to accelerate national laboratory intellectual property licensing and commercialization. Submissions for Phase 1 of the Lab Match Prize are due on January 25, 2024. UACI offers dedicated office hours and mentorship sessions to prospective applicants, ensuring they are well-equipped to craft a compelling and successful submission. 

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The University of Arizona Center for Innovation (UACI) is a key component of Tech Parks Arizona which brings together university, industry and community to advance technology innovation. UACI is the University of Arizona's startup incubator network with outposts across the Southern Arizona region with a mission to grow scalable startup ventures that fuel the Arizona ecosystem.