Bench, Biz and Beyond: A Path to Commercialization

Bench, Biz and Beyond: A Path to Innovation - banner

The University of Ottawa, The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, and The University of Ottawa Heart Institute welcome you to the Bench, Biz and Beyond: A Path to Commercialization series Over the next few months, join us for an informative journey through the world of academic innovation and entrepreneurship. This series is designed to empower researchers, clinicians, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts with the knowledge and tools needed to foster groundbreaking ideas, drive intellectual property strategies, and transform innovations from the bench to real-world solutions.

Through a diverse range of lunch sessions with a host of experts, we will explore various key factors of the innovation ecosystem, from intellectual property and industry collaborations to startup ventures and regulatory pathways. Whether you’re an academic, a business professional, or simply curious about innovation, this series is your gateway to unlocking the full potential of Ottawa’s innovation scene.

Schedule overview

Phase 1: Setting the Stage for Innovation

  • September 26, 2023: Introduction to Ottawa’s Academic Innovation Ecosystem, feat. John Bell
  • November 17, 2023: Introduction to Intellectual Property and Commercialization

Phase 2: Navigating the Innovation Journey

  • January 11, 2024: Collaborating with Industry
  • February 29, 2024: Starting a Company – A How-To Guide

Phase 3: Practical Insights and Connecting with Experts

  • April 11, 2024: Clinical Trials and Regulatory Pathway Insights
  • June 13, 2024: Putting it all Together – Building a Successful Company

All sessions will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Phase 1: Setting the Stage for Innovation

Session 1: An Introduction to Ottawa’s Academic Innovation Ecosystem

Session overview
Discover the heart of Ottawa’s academic innovation landscape in this session. Learn how innovation offices operate, and gain insights into the world of intellectual property (IP) from the technology transfer office’s perspective. Dive into the invention disclosure process, explore how technology is assessed, and understand how researchers can actively engage with innovation offices. This session is a must for anyone seeking to navigate the interface of academia and innovation.

Speakers

  • Dr. John Bell, Senior Scientist, The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute
  • Leah Labib, Technology Transfer Officer, The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute
  • Olanta Negeri, Business Development Manager, Innovation Support Services, uOttawa
  • Adim De, Innovation Advisor, The University of Ottawa Heart Institute

Date:  September 26, 2023

Location: Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre, Southside, Room C3202, 451 Smyth Road

Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Registration:

Register for Session 1 (EventBrite) »

Session 2: An Introduction to Intellectual Property and Commercialization

Session overview
Unravel the intricacies of intellectual property and its role in successful commercialization. From the basics of patents to exploring different forms of IP, this session will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of protecting your innovations. Delve into patent procedures both locally and internationally, grasp the significance of prior art and public disclosure, and explore strategic avenues for commercialization, be it through licensing or launching your own startup.

Speakers

  • Hans Schroeder, PhD. Partner, Patent Agent.  Firm: Gowlings WLG
  • Additional speakers TBD

Date:  November 17, 2023

Location: Foustanellas Auditorium, University of Ottawa Heart Institute

Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Registration: Coming soon

Phase 2: Navigating the Innovation Journey

Session 3: Collaborating with Industry

Session overview
Understand the strength of academia-industry collaboration in tackling R&D challenges. Engage with experts as they share insights on establishing fruitful relationships with industry players. Plus, explore funding opportunities that can fuel research-commercialization collaborations, fostering a cooperative relationship that drives innovation forward.

Speakers

  • TBD

Date: January 11, 2024

Location: TBD

Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Registration: Coming soon

Session 4: Starting a Company – A How-To Guide

Session overview
Embark on the exhilarating journey from idea to startup success. This session will guide you through the critical steps of assessing feasibility, navigating the market landscape, and timing your venture for success. Dive into real-world case studies, where seasoned entrepreneurs will share their challenges, opportunities, and lessons learned. Learn the art of scaling up and assembling the right team to transform your vision into reality.

Speakers

  • TBD

Date:  February 29, 2024

Location: Foustanellas Auditorium, University of Ottawa Heart Institute

Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Registration: Coming soon

Phase 3: Practical Insights and Connecting with Experts

Session 5: Clinical Trials and Regulatory Pathway Insights

Session overview
Navigate the complex world of clinical trials and regulatory pathways in this informative session. Gain deeper insights into designing effective clinical trials, understanding regulatory requirements, and determining the right regulatory path for your innovation. Learn when and how to initiate the regulatory process and explore key concepts of good practices (GxP) in your endeavors.

Speakers

  • TBD

Date: April 11, 2024

Location: TBD

Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Registration: Coming soon

Session 6: Putting it all Together – Building a Successful Company

Session overview
Discover the keys to building a thriving startup, particularly in the high-tech and biotech sectors. Understand the optimal timing for seeking external funding and learn practical strategies for accessing the necessary capital. This session brings together experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts who will share insights into fundraising, pitching, and securing the resources needed to take your startup to new heights.

Speakers

  • TBD

Date:  June 13, 2024

Location: Foustanellas Auditorium, University of Ottawa Heart Institute

Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Registration: Coming soon

For more information

Please contact Olanta Negeri at onegeri@uottawa.ca.

Share This