Idea Dame

Innovation, De-Risking and Enterprise Acceleration at the University of Notre Dame

The IDEA Center at the University of Notre Dame is the university's fundamental resource for innovation, de-risking, and enterprise acceleration.1 2 It serves as the central hub for all commercialization and entrepreneurial activities at Notre Dame.4

Key Functions

The IDEA Center supports a wide range of activities, including:

Commercialization Engine: Transforms university researchers' innovations into market applications.1
Innovation Park: Provides world-class office space designed to foster creativity and collaboration among entrepreneurs.1
Student Entrepreneurship: Offers opportunities for students to develop their ideas into businesses and learn about entrepreneurship.1
McCloskey New Venture Competition: Hosts a competition with over $300,000 in cash and prizes for aspiring entrepreneurs.1
Innovation Lab: Provides state-of-the-art manufacturing tools and resources for product and prototype development.1 3
Commercialization Engine Funding: Accelerates the advancement of university innovations through milestone-based funding.1

Scope and Impact

The IDEA Center supports the entire innovation process, from idea development to business formation, prototyping, and student entrepreneurial education.1 It provides the necessary space, services, and expertise to bring the best ideas and innovations from Notre Dame faculty, students, staff, and the South Bend-Elkhart community to market.1 2

As part of Notre Dame Research, the IDEA Center plays a crucial role in translating academic research into practical applications and fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem within the university and surrounding community.1 4