About Us

Innovation Partnerships accelerates the path from discovery to impact at the University of Michigan, working with faculty and researchers to translate ideas into real-world solutions. Our team brings expertise in intellectual property strategy, licensing, startup formation and industry engagement, helping move ideas from the lab into the marketplace.

Through our Alliances, Licensing and Ventures teams, we support research relationships with industry and foundations, develop and commercialize U‑M intellectual property and connect innovators with entrepreneurs, investors and industry partners to launch high-impact startup companies. As part of the Office of the Vice President for Research, we’re committed to faculty-centered service, meeting teams where they are in their journey and coordinating support across the commercialization lifecycle.

We also invest directly in the success of U-M startups through the Accelerate Blue Fund, an early-stage venture fund that provides critical capital to reach key milestones and attract follow-on investment. Paired with mentorship programs and a strong network of experienced advisors, this support helps university inventors and startup founders navigate the complex path from discovery to growth and impact.

Together, these efforts contribute to a robust innovation ecosystem that consistently places the University of Michigan among the nation’s leaders in startup creation and research commercialization. Innovation Partnerships plays a defining role in this success, helping ensure that breakthrough ideas generate meaningful impact for society, drive economic growth and strengthen Michigan’s innovation economy.