Turning small successes into lasting cultural change in academic innovation ecosystems
COLUMBIA, Md., (September 15, 2025) — TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announces the panel “The Innovation Flywheel: How Early Technology Transfer Wins Ignite Entrepreneurial Culture in Research Labs,” taking place at the upcoming 2025 Entrepreneur Expo at The Hotel at the University of Maryland on October 21, 2025. This session will feature leaders from academia, tech transfer offices and entrepreneurship programs sharing firsthand success stories and lessons learned.
Cultural change is often the most challenging part of building a thriving innovation ecosystem, especially in academic environments. But when one translational project succeeds, the effects can be transformative. Faculty begin to think differently about commercialization. Graduate students see entrepreneurship as a viable path. Departments redefine what success looks like.
“This session is about how one successful proof-of-concept can set off a chain reaction, reshaping the way an institution approaches innovation,” said Griffin St Louis, senior program manager, Maryland Innovation Initiative (MII), TEDCO. “When researchers see that their work can reach the market and make an impact, it creates momentum that feeds on itself.”
Joining this session will be:
- Moderator: Griffin St Louis, TEDCO
- Alla McCoy, University of Maryland, College Park
- Ajay Jha, Bowie State University
- Stacy Wassell, Frostburg State University
- Allen Morris, Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine
Panelists will explore how modest investments in proof-of-concept research, technology transfer support and startup formation have led to cascading results:
- Increased invention disclosures
- Deeper engagement with industry
- New funding pathways
- Shifts in faculty and student incentives
They’ll also share practical insights drawn from programs like I-Corps, technology assessment grants and commercialization planning activities—tools that have accelerated change by showing what’s possible, even with limited resources.
TEDCO’s Entrepreneur Expo is Maryland’s premier gathering for entrepreneurs, business owners, investors and thought leaders to connect, learn and be inspired. This year’s event promises a full day of interactive workshops, insightful discussions and dynamic pitches from emerging companies.
Don’t miss your chance to attend this “can’t miss” event! Tickets are limited, so secure your spot now and get ready for a day filled with learning, networking and inspiration.