1. Commercial Partners: How Inventors Can be Advocates for Their Technologies Bryan Ritchie, Associate Vice President for Research Commercialization & Director, TVC

2. Inventors Guide to Interacting with Industry or Investors 1. Protect Your Idea. Contact Technology and Venture Commercialization (TVC) first. 2. Proactively Seek Opportunities. Interact with companies at conferences, technology showcases, partnering events, venture fairs, and via publishing papers. 3. Basic Marketing Details. Explain your idea simply, in less than a minute.

3. 4. Keep It Simple. Don’t get too technical when discussing your invention. 5. Show Enthusiasm. It’s your idea and you believe strongly in it. 6. Find Out What They Want. Listen to their needs, desires, and frustrations. 7. Keep Marketing Materials Handy. An opportunity may arise at any time to discuss your invention with someone.

4. 8. Exchange Business Cards. Get their information and promise prompt follow-up. 9. Keep TVC In The Loop. Share contacts and other information with TVC. 10. Stick With It. The commercialization process can take considerable time and commitment, which requires patience and perseverance.