From Discovery to Impact

An introduction to research commercialization for LMP faculty

Have you ever wondered whether your research could become a product, technology, diagnostic, company or clinical innovation but weren't sure where to begin?

Many LMP faculty generate discoveries with real-world potential. However, understanding whether an idea is suitable for commercialization, where to start, and which supports are available across the University of Toronto can be challenging. The innovation ecosystem is extensive, and for busy researchers, navigating it can be difficult.

This new faculty development series has been designed specifically for LMP faculty who are at the earliest stages of considering commercialization. You do not need previous experience in entrepreneurship or business development, just an interest in exploring whether an idea may have translational potential.

Over four practical workshops, participants will gain an introduction to the commercialization process, hear from experts who have successfully navigated it, and learn about the resources available within the University of Toronto and its affiliated hospitals. The series concludes with an opportunity to pitch your idea to an expert panel in a Dragon's Den-style competition.

Who should participate?

This program is designed for:

LMP faculty members with an early-stage research idea, technology or innovation
LMP-appointed faculty interested in understanding commercialization pathways before committing significant time or resources
Faculty-led teams (which may include students or trainees)

No previous entrepreneurship experience is required.

Why participate?

This program is created by LMP faculty, for LMP faculty.

By participating, you will:

Understand whether commercialization is an appropriate pathway for your research
Save time by learning how to navigate U of T's innovation and commercialization ecosystem
Learn about intellectual property, funding opportunities, industry partnerships and regulatory considerations
Connect with colleagues interested in innovation across LMP
Receive practical advice from experienced innovators and commercialization experts
Develop your idea in preparation for a faculty pitch competition
Compete for funding to help advance promising ideas

Whether you ultimately decide to commercialize your innovation or not, you will leave with a clearer understanding of the opportunities, challenges and next steps.

Program format

The program consists of four online workshops followed by an in-person pitch competition.

Workshop 1 – October 2026: Regulatory readiness and translation pathways

Understand the pathway from laboratory discovery to clinical application, including regulatory approval processes and technology readiness.

Workshop 2 – November 2026: Navigating U of T's entrepreneurship supports

Explore the commercialization resources available across the University of Toronto and affiliated institutions, including entrepreneurship programmes, funding opportunities and expert supports.

Workshop 3 – January 2027: Collaborations, team formation and Intellectual Property

Learn how to build successful collaborative teams, work with industry partners and navigate intellectual property ownership.

Workshop 4 – February 2027: Funding pathways and deal structures

Gain an introduction to commercialization funding, licensing, collaborative research agreements and investment pathways.

Pitch Competition – April 2027

Eligible teams will present their ideas to a panel of experienced judges from academia, industry and the innovation sector in a Dragon's Den-style competition. Winning teams will receive prize funding to help advance their idea.

Eligibility

Teams must be led by an LMP faculty member.
Teams may include students and trainees.
At least one member of each team must attend each workshop to remain eligible for the pitch competition.
Workshop recordings will be available to registered participants.

Register your interest

Registration for events will open in September 2026.

LMP Commercialization Working Group

This initiative is supported by the the LMP Catalyst Fund through LMP Faculty Development Day.