Skillfluence

Where does this programme fit within the existing ICURe pathway?

ICURe Engage Outreach has been devised by Innovate UK as a way to explore a more inclusive model for Engage delivery, thereby helping to widen participation in research commercialisation beyond traditional groups.

What are the selection criteria?

The programme is open to academics, researchers – including Masters Research students – and technicians working or studying at any UK institution. However, priority will be given to institutions formed post-1992, as well as those which have been historically underrepresented on ICURe programmes in the past. We are also seeking academics from diverse and underrepresented groups. Successful applicants must be available to attend all six sessions.

Our institution has had previous participants on the ICURe Explore programme. Can we still apply?

An institution having previously engaged with ICURe does not preclude its staff or students from applying for ICURe Engage Outreach. If an individual applicant has not previously participated in an ICURe programme, their application will be considered. However, please note that places are limited, and if we are oversubscribed, places will be prioritised for institutions formed post-1992 and other institutions which have previously been underrepresented on ICURe programmes.

What stage of ICURe can you enter at depending on prior training?

While it used to be possible to enter the ICURe stream directly at the Explore stage, it has been found that outcomes are stronger for participants if they complete the Discover programme beforehand. ICURe Discover gives people more time to consider their value proposition and to more fully understand the commercialisation pathway. By participating in Discover first, participants can thoroughly understand if they are heading in the right direction and then use Explore time appropriately.

Which TRL level is the beginning of the journey? I am at TRL 3. Would ICURe Discover be more useful?

Yes, for those at TRL 3, the ICURe Discover programme might be more suitable. You can either apply for the ICURe Engage Outreach programme and be redirected to Discover if your application seems more appropriate for that stage, or look directly at the Discover programme webpage for available opportunities. The ICURe Discover webpage can be found here. One requirement for taking part in ICURe Discover is support from your Technology Transfer Office (TTO), though we are aware that some institutions do not have that specific facility. If your situation does not clearly meet the eligibility criteria, it is worth contacting ICURe directly.

If someone already attended Skillfluence’s Research to Value programme, is this something similar or a follow-up course?

The Research to Value programme is geared towards academics and researchers who are further along in their commercialisation pathway, whereas the Innovate UK ICURe Engage Outreach programme is targeted at people who are at the beginning of that journey. If you have already completed Research to Value, you have likely already explored these concepts already and may be better suited for more advanced programmes.

Will there be advice on how to make commercialisation part of a grant funding application?

By the end of the programme, you will be able to explain your idea commercially using appropriate language, and you will feel more confident about articulating your commercialisation route. For specific funding advice, we recommend that you speak with someone at your institution.

If I am unable to attend one session, can I still participate in the programme?

The programme prioritises applicants who can attend all six sessions and you will be asked to specify your availability to attend when completing your application form. If you cannot attend all six sessions, you may want to search for the other ICURe Engage opportunities which will be opening throughout the year.

Can Professional Services staff attend the programme?

While we recognise the importance of Professional Services members of staff engaging with research commercialisation in order to more fully assist the staff whom they support, this programme is designed for academics, researchers – including Masters Research students – and technicians.

Is there a cost to my institution or to me?

ICURe Engage Outreach is fully funded by Innovate UK as part of the ICURe stream of programmes, therefore there is no financial cost to any participant or institution. The only commitment expected from participants is the time required to attend the weekly sessions.

Does our TTO have to be involved in the application process?

The ICURe Engage Outreach programme is the very first part of the commercialisation journey. The purpose is to transform researchers from “commercially curious” to “commercially confident”. It is not a prerequisite for programme participants to already have an idea for a commercialisation project, therefore TTOs do not need to be formally involved in the application process. We do however recommend that applicants inform their TTO that they intend to apply, as their TTO may be able to provide additional advice or support. 

When I apply for the programme, will I receive an e-mail confirmation?

Yes. When you apply, you will automatically receive a notification e-mail acknowledging your application. If you do not receive this, please contact us: info@skillfluence.co.uk

Will this programme run again later in the year?

Yes. Skillfluence is one of several partners which deliver on the ICURe Engage programme stream, and though Engage Outreach is a pilot, other Engage opportunities will be advertised in the new few months. All available programmes on the ICURe stream can be found on the Business Connect website here