Our Mission

To accelerate the translation of important ideas into meaningful products and services for North Carolina, the world, and the University.

Research at UNC-Chapel Hill improves lives and creates tremendous social and economic value. To accelerate the pipeline of important ideas that are successfully put into practical use, Chancellor Carol Folt created the Vice Chancellor’s Office for Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Economic Development In February 2015. The Office houses Innovate Carolina, the pan-university network and ecosystem of support for innovation, as well as the Office of Technology Commercialization. OTC is responsible for managing all aspects of UNC-Chapel Hill intellectual property. Additionally, as part of Innovate Carolina, our office helps faculty, staff, and students effectively manage inventions and technologies that may have impact with or without commercialization. We partner with them through the entire translation process. OTC provides funding and support and works closely with other University and external funders and resource providers to further develop and translate discoveries and technologies. OTC forges relationships with external partners in industry and business to help structure partnerships that bring UNC-Chapel Hill research to market. Furthermore, we provide services, training and mentorship to promote entrepreneurship and startup company formation. We assist startups with securing space, finding resources and funding, and assembling a proper leadership team. Let’s work together to realize the full potential of UNC-Chapel Hill inventions, discoveries, and technologies.