Tech Transfer Articles

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer Director Dave Brown talks with Wesley Stevens, founder of Quillify.ai, a groundbreaking AI platform that streamlines grant searching and writing for startups. Wesley shares how his background in AI and data science led him to create Qualify.ai, designed to save entrepreneurs months of time by generating tailored grant opportunities and assisting in application drafting. They discuss the challenges of traditional grant writing, the power of natural language processing, and Qualify.ai�s potential to transform funding for startups and tech transfer offices. This episode is essential for entrepreneurs, tech transfer professionals, and anyone interested in leveraging AI to support innovation funding.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer Director Dave Brown interviews Mike Hendron, Director of BYU’s Rollins Center for Entrepreneurship, about the center’s pivotal role in fostering student entrepreneurship. Mike shares insights on BYU’s supportive programs, including Launchpad, Sandbox, and the Rollins Center’s new validation and traction grants. They discuss the unique entrepreneurial culture at BYU, which consistently ranks among top universities for alumni business ownership, and the value of hands-on experiences, mentoring, and community support. This episode is essential for students, faculty, and aspiring entrepreneurs interested in understanding how BYU nurtures innovation and prepares students to launch successful ventures.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer Director Dave Brown interviews Jono Gal, a PhD student at BYU and founder of Photosynthetic Technologies, on his groundbreaking work in algae cultivation through tubular photobioreactors. Jono discusses his patented design that increases production efficiency by 41%, potentially transforming protein production for food and biofuel industries. They explore the global demand for sustainable protein, particularly in high-population countries, and the impact of this technology on resource conservation. Ideal for biotech entrepreneurs, investors, and sustainability advocates, this episode delves into the science and business potential behind algae-based protein solutions.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer Director Dave Brown interviews Jerry Rudisin, a six-time startup CEO and cybersecurity expert, about his role as CEO of Achilles Heel, a cybersecurity company focused on protecting critical infrastructure like the U.S. power grid. Jerry shares insights from his Silicon Valley career, the transition to Silicon Slopes, and the unique challenges of commercializing advanced cybersecurity technologies. They discuss the Achilles Heel approach, which uses innovative mathematical modeling to identify vulnerabilities in complex systems, aiming to prevent attacks before they happen. This episode is a must-listen for tech entrepreneurs, cybersecurity professionals, and anyone interested in the future of critical infrastructure protection.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer Director Dave Brown sits down with Jennifer Thomas and Bennett Mortensen to discuss their favorite books for tech entrepreneurs, focusing on essential reads for anyone interested in tech transfer and intellectual property (IP) commercialization. They cover classics like How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie for relationship building, Zero to One by Peter Thiel on achieving monopoly in markets, and The Lean Startup by Eric Ries for agile business methodologies. With insights into business strategy, financial literacy, and innovation, this episode is perfect for tech startup founders, student entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the startup journey.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer Director Dave Brown interviews Reid Tileston, an adjunct professor and experienced entrepreneur, on the topic of entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA). Reid shares his journey from managing multiple fitness franchises to advising on business acquisitions. With insights on selecting the right business to buy, minimizing risks, and building strong relationships with team members, Reid explains why ETA can be a more secure path to entrepreneurship. He also highlights his approach to operational diligence, team management, and the critical role of intrinsic motivation in business success. This episode is essential for aspiring entrepreneurs, MBA students, and anyone interested in acquisition-based entrepreneurship.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer Director Dave Brown interviews Brian Bentley, co-founder of Diagnostic Ventures, about his company’s mission to revolutionize sepsis diagnosis. Bentley shares how his team is advancing a groundbreaking technology developed at BYU that can detect sepsis pathogens in under two hours, a massive improvement over current methods that take days. They discuss the journey from technology licensing to scaling for clinical impact, highlighting challenges like navigating the FDA approval process and securing funding. This episode is ideal for medtech entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in tech transfer and life-saving innovations.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer interns speak with Chad Pollard, a BYU PhD student and entrepreneur whose groundbreaking diagnostic technology aims to revolutionize Alzheimer’s detection. Chad shares how his research, initially focused on Alzheimer’s, expanded to include diagnostics for other neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and ALS. Through partnerships, venture funding, and a team of experienced mentors, Chad’s startup has grown rapidly, securing a $114 million valuation. This episode is ideal for STEM students, researchers, and aspiring entrepreneurs looking to learn about the path from academic research to successful tech commercialization and the value of building a supportive network.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer Director Dave Brown speaks with IP broker Dallin Ferris to discuss BYU’s partnership with Invictus, a BYU startup with a groundbreaking NICU noise attenuation device. Designed to improve outcomes for preterm infants, this technology utilizes external sound-canceling speakers, inspired by innovations in industrial and personal noise-canceling devices. Together, Dave and Dallin cover the device’s journey from FDA approval to market readiness, as well as the unique challenges and opportunities of licensing advanced medical technology. They highlight the role of tech transfer in bringing life-saving technologies to market and offer insights for potential investors interested in high-impact healthcare innovation.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer Director Dave Brown sits down with Devin Miller, founder of Miller IP Law and host of The Inventive Journey podcast, to discuss essential IP strategies for startups. Devin shares insights from his experience as an entrepreneur and IP attorney, covering the core areas of intellectual property—patents, trademarks, and copyrights—and how each applies to different types of startups. They also discuss common IP pitfalls, the importance of filing early, and strategic decisions around allocating resources for IP protection. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, inventors, and anyone interested in protecting and scaling new ideas.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer Director Dave Brown interviews Haile Terry, a Leventhal Fellow and computer science major at BYU, about her journey through the Leventhal Fellowship and her passion for social entrepreneurship. Haley shares insights into how her background in computer science and international development shapes her goal to make software solutions accessible and affordable for nonprofits, particularly those tackling environmental challenges. She discusses the hands-on experience gained through BYU’s Sandbox program and her work with small businesses in Mexico City, where she focused on digital transformation. This episode is ideal for students, entrepreneurs, and tech transfer professionals interested in leveraging technology for social good.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer Director Dave Brown interviews Linda Cabrales, Director of the Utah Innovation Center, about essential funding opportunities for Utah-based entrepreneurs and researchers. Linda explains how the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs provide crucial non-dilutive funding to help startups bridge the gap between concept and commercialization. She shares insights on the application process, success rates, and how the Utah Innovation Center supports small businesses with resources like proposal consultations and micro-grants. This episode is perfect for Utah entrepreneurs and tech transfer professionals looking to fund research and development while retaining full ownership of their innovations.

In this fun and insightful episode, BYU Tech Transfer Director Dave Brown and guest Bennett Mortensen dive into the year’s biggest movies, drawing unexpected parallels between blockbuster hits and tech transfer strategies. From The Boys in the Boat to Oppenheimer, Dave and Bennett extract valuable business lessons, discussing themes like team dynamics, the importance of innovation, and strategic marketing decisions. This episode is a unique blend of entertainment and education, perfect for entrepreneurs, tech transfer professionals, and movie enthusiasts eager to explore how popular films can illuminate the entrepreneurial journey.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer Director Dave Brown interviews Matt Sederberg, Chief Strategy Officer for Coreform and a serial entrepreneur with roots in BYU’s tech transfer ecosystem. Matt shares his journey from co-founding the successful tech startup T-Splines with his father to developing Coreform’s revolutionary CAD and simulation software. They discuss the unique challenges and rewards of licensing university technologies, building a tech business, and scaling innovations for high-demand industries like automotive and aerospace. This episode is essential for tech transfer professionals, student entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in the intersection of university research and startup success.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer interns interview David Williams, a Stanford MBA and seasoned entrepreneur with experience in medical devices, venture-backed startups, and nonprofit ventures. David shares his journey from engineering at BYU to launching successful ventures like Maglock and Two Feet Prosthetics. He discusses key insights from his work in medtech, including the importance of rapid prototyping, securing venture funding, and navigating business disruptions. This episode is packed with valuable advice for student innovators, tech entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in building a sustainable career in innovation and technology commercialization.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer interns talk with seasoned entrepreneur Chuck Knutson, who shares his journey of building multiple businesses and his approach to learning from market feedback. Chuck discusses the “law of the harvest” in entrepreneurship—how success requires more than just good ideas; it demands preparation, patience, and a willingness to adapt based on market response. From his early ventures in tech to launching unique products with minimal advertising, Chuck reveals what it takes to connect with customers and turn insights into profitable ventures. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs, tech innovators, and anyone interested in the realities of starting and scaling a business.

In this engaging episode, the BYU Tech Transfer team dive into the fascinating world of celebrity entrepreneurs in tech. Covering stars like Drew Barrymore, Ashton Kutcher, and Gwyneth Paltrow, they explore how these celebrities have successfully navigated tech-driven ventures, from e-commerce to innovative wellness products. The discussion highlights strategies used by each, like leveraging personal brands, identifying market gaps, and building strong partnerships, providing valuable lessons for tech entrepreneurs and students alike. Whether it’s launching a sustainable product line or investing in a new tech startup, this episode showcases how to turn fame into business success.

In this episode, BYU Tech Transfer Director Dave Brown speaks with MBA student Kirk Tompkinson about his journey from engineering to entrepreneurship and his interest in tech transfer. Kirk shares insights into BYU’s MBA program, its emphasis on entrepreneurship, and how resources like the Rollins Center support students aiming to launch their own companies. They discuss the unique role of tech transfer in connecting university innovations with market needs and the value of licensing university technologies. This conversation is essential for MBA students, aspiring entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in the intersections of business, innovation, and technology commercialization.