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- Do I need to sign an NDA before I start?
No. For your first meetings we do not expect academics to reveal commercially sensitive information. However if, between us, we decide to look more closely at a specific technology then it may at that point be desirable to agree terms for Non-Disclosure. We will not be able to discuss details of any pre-IP projects with you until NDAs are signed.
- What does IPSO mean by "assess technology from a demand perspective"?
We simply mean that we want you to assess what you hear about simply from the viewpoint of the current demand from industry for the innovation in question, or the expectation of demand in the near future. The critical point here is that this perspective must be based on personal experience and governs the narrow focus of you input i.e. dig out what you understand and don't worry about the rest.
- Entrepreneurs - how does IPSO define this term here?
IPSO Entrepreneurs must have knowledge of industry demand for technology. As such they are most likely to have recently exited a technology company through trade sale or IPO, but may have a Venture Capital or other background that we believe gives them a unique view of industry demand. Your experience-based view is likely to be very specific with respect to market sectors, product areas and markets.
- How does the Initiative cover a wide technology base when I can only give my narrow personal perspective?
The IPSO Entrepreneurs Initiative provides a rolling program of entrepreneurial expertise, introducing a series of Entrepreneurs to each university with each individual focussing on a narrow market area. Together the Entrepreneurs' expertise embraces a wide coverage of technology. As such, a new entrepreneur will be appointed once you complete you own study and we expect to rotate entrepreneurs on a quarterly basis in a rolling program.
- Any useful Dos and Don'ts?
Do assess as many technology ideas, programs and projects as you can, applying an open mind as to the source of useful technology
Don't try to assess demand in areas where you do not have personal experience.
Do look beyond the individual; researchers take an academic viewpoint and could be more interested in discussing elegant technology solutions rather than valuable ones.
Don't expect to find a complete solution ready to go.
Do bring your own personal viewpoint to bare; this is exactly what we value.
- Will I be expected to participate in clinics, lectures and wider education on innovation?
Not if you are not interested in doing so. The IPSO Entrepreneurs initiative is part of the wider Enterprise & Entrepreneurship Development Program that we deliver to Loughborough University and expect to deliver to others. This E&E Development Program includes Workshops for academics and we would be delighted to include you if you are interested in contributing to these. Our request, however, is that you attend parts of relevant Workshops simply to meet and connect with academics whom you may then visit in the labs - Workshop participants include many of the most entrepreneurial and inventive academics in each university.
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