This is a program for McGill’s Faculty of Engineering research-based graduate students which aims to train and support the next generation of researchers to better understand the potential societal and commercial impact of their research and increase their entrepreneurial mindset and skills.
It is designed for graduate students without previous research commercialization training or experience, but whose research is relevant for being applied to society and the marketplace.
Important Dates:
Current cohort program duration: May 7 - July 16, 2025
Call for applications of the next cohort: Fall 2025
Program Overview
Through lectures, workshops, and assignments every week based on their progress, along with primary market research via interviews, each student will share their findings with the cohort and receive feedback from experts and their peers. Students will be encouraged to use the open collaboration space at the McGill Engine Centre.
The 10-week program will include expert-led workshops, as part of the Invention to Impact training program, along with peer-to-peer interactions. Minimum of 10 hours per week of participation in the program is required. This includes the workshops, lectures, assignments, regular weekly meetings with the assigned mentor, and customer discovery interviews.
Up to 5 awards of $2000 each for 5 eligible graduate students, upon program completion. These inaugural awards are called the Douglas Van Graduate Impact Award, after the generous donor.
Eligibility
Eligible students are research-based Master’s and PhDs enrolled at McGill’s Faculty of Engineering and that have mostly completed or completed any course requirements.
To apply to the program, please complete the application form, which includes a description of your research project and your interest and experience in research commercialization. It will also require attaching your CV and your letter of support from your supervisor.
Applicants must commit to participating fully in the program.
Selection Criteria
- Interest in conceptualizing a new product, service, or venture based on their research.
- Just starting to consider how to translate your research into a new product, service, or venture.
- Research is relevant for being applied to society and the marketplace.
