UNM turned its focus to technology commercialization three years ago with a visit to the University of Florida’s Innovation Square. That trip marked a distinct shift in UNM’s approach to commercializing research; the University was setting out to play a significant role in growing a dynamic and diversified regional economy. And while there is still much more work to be done to facilitate and support technology commercialization in our state, we are already beginning to see results.

Recently in the news for its innovative disinfecting wipes for healthcare professionals, BioSafe Technologies LLC and its manager, Harry Pappas, are an example of how the shift in focus around tech commercialization supports the transfer of technology from UNM’s labs to budding, high-growth companies.

Pappas, a nanoscience and microsystems engineer who just completed his PhD at UNM, said the University’s support around commercialization has been pivotal for his company. “It wasn’t until my last year that I even started thinking about the commercial application of what we were doing in the lab. Grad students don’t really have commercialization on their mind … but I was really fortunate in that the program combined [discipline related] classes with business. I had never done anything like that before.” Beyond encouraging Pappas’ participation in pitch competitions and business plan writing, Pappas credited UNM for its support around patenting and building connections with venture capital. Pappas said, “Actually making a business out of the compounds we studied wouldn’t have happened without STC.UNM and UNM. If it weren’t for the support, I would have just found a post doc like everyone else.” Instead, BioSafe Technologies now holds exclusive options to license 17 patents, three of which specifically mention the implementation of UNM-synthesized antimicrobials on fabric, and has received venture capital from a Nevada based firm to cover all startup costs.

OPPORTUNITIES: Innovate ABQ will offer both undergraduate and graduate students from a variety of disciplines the opportunity to take business and entrepreneurship classes. 300 units of student housing at the site will further immerse students in a community of entrepreneurship.