On September 18 and 24, Caucasus University hosted a two-day intensive, practical workshop - “From Research to Impact: Thinking Commercially” - within the framework of the University Capacity Building Program (UCBP).

The program is an initiative funded by the U.S. Embassy, aimed at strengthening research administration, fostering international partnerships, expanding access to research funding, promoting commercialization, and enhancing innovative capacities within higher education institutions.

The workshop was led by Bob Smith, Executive Director of the Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at George Washington University. Bob Smith oversees GWU’s I-Corps and Lean Startup programs and brings 30 years of experience in university-based commercialization.

Throughout the two-day intensive course, Caucasus University faculty and researchers had the opportunity to participate in interactive sessions and receive consultations regarding the commercial potential and funding avenues for their ongoing and planned research projects.

On the first day, participants were introduced to the fundamentals of research commercialization and methods of market analysis. Initially, researchers presented short pitches and engaged in roundtable discussions. The second half of the day was dedicated to practical exercises, after which participants selected one project for further development.

The second day focused on developing realistic commercialization pathways, creating a concise commercialization roadmap, and exploring funding and partnership opportunities, with particular emphasis on U.S. and EU directions. The workshop concluded with short presentations and the outlining of next steps.

The U.S.-Georgia “University Capacity Building Program (UCBP)” is implemented by American Councils for International Education with the financial support of the U.S. Embassy in Georgia.