About this programme
The Corridor Early-Stage Innovation Fund is run through USF Research & Innovation as part of the Florida High Tech Corridor's programs. It seeds faculty-developed technologies at the University of South Florida that could lead to industry investment, community engagement, startup creation, or licensing.
The fund pays for internal research expenses that address the commercial barriers standing between a discovery and its market application, so a technology can move closer to licensing or spinning out as a startup.
How it works
USF researchers may request up to $25,000 to support internal research expenses tied directly to advancing commercialization.
Letters of Intent are accepted on a rolling basis. A review committee convenes bi-monthly, and invited proposals are presented at the next available committee meeting.
Who can apply
Open to USF researchers whose technology demonstrates strong commercial potential.
The technology must be disclosed to the USF Tech Transfer Office through the USF Inventor Portal before a Letter of Intent can be submitted.
How to apply
- Disclose the technology through the USF Inventor Portal to the Tech Transfer Office.
- Meet with Florida High Tech Corridor and USF Tech Transfer Office staff (strongly encouraged before submitting).
- Submit a Letter of Intent through the program's AirTable form.
- If invited, present the proposal at the next available bi-monthly review committee meeting.
Frequently asked
How much can a USF researcher request?
Up to $25,000 to support internal research expenses directly tied to commercialization.
Do I need to disclose my technology before applying?
Yes. The technology must be disclosed to the USF Tech Transfer Office via the USF Inventor Portal before a Letter of Intent is submitted.
How often are applications reviewed?
Letters of Intent are accepted on a rolling basis, and the review committee meets bi-monthly. Invited proposals are presented at the next available meeting.
What can the money be used for?
Research expenses that address the commercial barriers between a discovery and its market application, such as resolving technical questions needed to accelerate licensing or startup formation.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.