2024 Baylor Giving Day

SUPPORT THE WACO INNOVATION FUND ON BAYLOR GIVING DAY

As Baylor pursues preeminence as a Christian R1 research institution, it enables individuals from throughout the University to develop solutions to the world's largest problems with Baylor's distinct voice and mission. 

The Waco Innovation Fund was recently established to make financial resources available to internally developed technology and innovation startups. Funds will accelerate the market viability of products and solutions.

Students and faculty can take an idea, research, or technology rapidly to market. Each semester, $50,000-$250,000 is distributed.

STRUCTURE

• Three funding streams for Baylor innovators:
  • Student Innovation Grant
    • Who: Undergrad/Graduate Students
    • Purpose: Validate ideas/products through customer discovery and lean startup
  • Staff and Faculty Innovation Grants
    • Who: Staff and Faculty
    • Purpose: Validate ideas/products through customer discovery and lean startup
  • Commercialization Grant
    • Who: Faculty, Staff, and/or students
    • Purpose: Launch ventures based on Baylor IP/research by assessing market viability and using lean startup methods. Funds support technology development, milestones, outsourcing, and other business activities

PROCESS

• Semiannually, a simple one-page application opens for 30 days.
• Top ideas win a 10-minute pitch before a panel of judges. Winners are selected on the same day.
• Funding awarded within 30 days.
•  8-week commercialization boot camp with mentors.
• Grant recipients submit a report 6 months after receiving funds.
• Finalists who demonstrate substantial progress will be eligible for further support and resources, within Baylor and externally.

MAKE AN IMPACT

Missed out on Baylor Giving Day 2024? You can still make an impact by clicking here to make a gift.