Neurotech Commercialization, Spinoffs, and Venture Pathways
Panel Discussion
Date: 04/02/2026
Time: 1pm-2pm
Location: Communicore C1-011
ABSTRACT
Translating neurotechnology from the research lab into real-world impact requires more than technical innovation. This panel will explore the practical pathways that move neural interface and neuromodulation research from academic discovery to commercialization, startup formation, and scalable ventures. Speakers will discuss technology licensing, intellectual property strategy, customer discovery, venture development, funding pathways, and the unique challenges of deep-tech and medical device translation. The session will begin with short, focused presentations from each speaker followed by a moderated panel discussion and audience Q&A. Attendees will gain insight into how to navigate commercialization within the university ecosystem and beyond.
SPEAKER BIOS
Anita Rao
Anita Rao serves as Program Director of Pathways at UF Innovate, where she supports faculty, postdocs, staff, and students in advancing innovation and commercialization efforts at the University of Florida. With experience in technology licensing and university-based commercialization strategy, she works to empower innovators with training, resources, and structured pathways to translate research into market-ready solutions.
Jamie Kraft
Jamie Kraft is the Director (Wizard-in-Residence) of the University of Florida’s Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center. With over two decades of experience guiding entrepreneurial education, he previously worked at Deloitte Consulting in strategy and economic analysis before earning his MBA at UF as a Matherly Scholar. Jamie has led students through customer discovery, venture development, and global entrepreneurship programs across multiple continents, and was named Undergraduate Teacher of the Year in the Warrington College of Business in 2025.
Collin Ulmer
Collin Ulmer is affiliated with KDD Startup Studio, a venture-building platform founded within UF’s research ecosystem that focuses on turning deep-tech innovations into scalable companies. KDD works hands-on with founders across AI, SaaS, space and defense, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies, providing structured venture development support, access to funding networks, and connections to Florida’s leading innovation pipelines.
