UNC Wilmington is proud to announce it is now a headquarter location for NCInnovation’s applied research support.

NCInnovation is a nonprofit organization that provides grant funding and other support to university researchers working on discoveries that have practical application and commercial promise.

"The NCInnovation relationship has been invaluable to UNCW in helping innovators take their projects to the next level. NCI has addressed the 'valley of death' funding issue while providing support, connections, and mentorship to UNCW researchers,” said Justine Reel, interim associate provost for research and innovation. “We are delighted that NCI will continue to grow their presence at UNCW and the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship with the formation of the Wilmington Hub. This emerging hub benefits UNCW, the community and our region." 

Regional directors at NCInnovation hubs serve researchers on their respective campuses and at nearby universities and connect NCInnovation grant recipients with industry and business services to advance their research towards commercialization. Appalachian State University, East Carolina University, Fayetteville State University, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, UNC Charlotte, and Western Carolina University also serve as NCInnovation hubs. 

“It is an honor to have been selected as one of three institutions expanding the UNC System partnership with NCInnovation,” said James J. Winebrake, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. “Our engagement with NCI demonstrates commitment to economic development in our region and also reinforces our commitment to advancing the integration of entrepreneurship within more programs across campus.” 

Earlier this year, NCInnovation approved its first slate of research grants to support projects at seven universities. The next round of grants will be open to all applied researchers in the UNC System. The organization expects to announce the application period in the near future. 

For more information, visit the NCInnovation website.