News and Events > Launching a Technology-Based Startup: TTO's Summer Internship Program

Launching a Technology-Based Startup: TTO’s Summer Internship Program

The Technology Transfer Office offers MBA students a different kind of experience than they would get with a traditional internship at a front range business. MBA interns are immediately given much more responsibility, autonomy and structured mentoring on projects through the Technology Transfer Office. Each intern is assigned to 2-3 technologies that have “startup potential” but lack business leadership, a feasibility analysis or a business plan. Through the course of the summer, interns meet with inventors, TTO licensing staff and an advisory board organized through the Boulder Innovation Center (BIC). Interns take a lead role in advisory board meetings, and are responsible for driving the concept forward. By the end of the summer, a TTO intern may be able to point to a new startup and their key role in launching that business. Additionally, MBA interns get unparalleled exposure in the Front Range professional business community through working relationships with BIC advisors and serial entrepreneurs who are potential CEOs for the new ventures.

For the past three summers the University of Colorado Technology Transfer Office (TTO) has operated this internship program. A graduate of the 2003 program, ARCA Discoveries, Inc., provides an excellent example of the success of the program. The program brought together an MBA student with academic and business experience in medical technologies with experienced, local business advisors to work with the researcher to develop a business strategy and plan. The company has closed a Series A financing round and is on its way to success.

Overall, the summer program creates new relationships, identifies opportunities and increases understanding about technology transfer between the University and the Colorado business community. This is an unparalleled opportunity for MBA students who focus on Entrepreneurship. The TTO is currently seeking MBA students and Front-Range business professionals and firms with an interest in volunteering their time and expertise to serve as business advisors to the summer 2007 program. If interested, please contact TTOContact@cu.edu.