Innovate UA is a university-wide initiative dedicated to accelerating the translation of research into real-world solutions. Supported by the National Science Foundation’s Accelerating Research Translation (ART) program, Innovate UA is strengthening The University of Alabama’s innovation ecosystem through strategic partnerships, entrepreneurial support, and translational research infrastructure.

The University of Alabama is honored to be one of 18 institutions nationwide selected for the inaugural NSF ART award, a first-of-its-kind program designed to bridge the gap between academic discovery and societal impact.

Our Purpose

Vision

To expand translational research capacity at The University of Alabama through strategic public-private partnerships and an innovation-driven, entrepreneurial culture that enhances the region’s innovation landscape.

Mission

To catalyze research commercialization, cultivate robust industry collaboration, and foster a sustainable innovation infrastructure that transforms research into real-world outcomes.

Strategic Pillars

• Technology & Commercialization Infrastructure: Enhancing institutional capabilities, policies, and support mechanisms to expedite the transition from research to market.
• Entrepreneurship & Startup: Empowering faculty and student entrepreneurs with funding, mentorship, and commercialization pathways.
• Industry & Regional Collaboration: Building meaningful collaborations with corporate partners, investors, and regional stakeholders to scale innovation.
• Next Generation of Innovators: Providing experiential learning and mentorship opportunities to prepare the next generation of technology and innovation leaders.

Get Involved

Innovate UA is building a collaborative community of innovators, researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders committed to advancing research translation and regional impact. Whether you’re developing new technologies, launching ventures, mentoring the next generation, or exploring opportunities for collaboration – there are many ways to get involved.

Ways to Participate

• Faculty & Researchers: Access support to translate your work into real-world solutions through funding, mentorship, and strategic partnerships.
• Students & Innovators: Join a growing innovation ecosystem with opportunities to contribute to translational research, venture development, and experiential learning.
• Industry & Investors: Collaborate with UA on cutting-edge research, workforce development, and commercialization strategies.
• Regional Partners & Stakeholders: Co-develop programs and initiatives that strengthen Alabama’s innovation economy.

Stay Connected

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Let’s Work Together

Interested in collaborating or learning more? We welcome inquires related to research translation, partnership opportunities, and innovation programming.

Stephanie Paul
Innovation and Commercialization Project Director
Office for Innovation and Commercialization
spaul5@ua.edu | 205-348-2752