Past Projects

Past CTI Practicum Projects (140 Successful Projects since 2005)

Fall 2024 (5 Projects)

• AI research assistant (helping academics and researchers accelerate research workflows):  Conducted market and competitive analysis, explored new market sectors, and provided business plan assistance.

• Peptide discovery platform for crop protection (using sustainable and eco-friendly biopesticides to replace harmful pesticides):  Identified potential customers to use platform, prepared marketing packages, and aided plans for market expansion.

• Genomics and AI/ML risk algorithms & analysis (solving problems for national security and government agencies):  Explored how company technologies currently applied to government applications could be expanded into corporate sectors.

• Method to improve drug discovery (enabling more personalized medical care for neurological diseases):  Provided market research and core business planning assistance.

• Scaling precision fermentation (helping food and agriculture biotech firms bring products to market):  Delivered an ideal client profile, economic analysis of standard vs. custom services, competitive landscape, and process & revenue maps. 

Fall 2023 (7 Projects)

• AI teaching assistant (helping students to better engage course content): Conducted market and business-model analysis to aid marketing plan development to reach the best target segments.

• Sustainable shopping cart wheels (enabling tire replacement to lower costs and decrease landfill waste):  Analyzed the cart-wheel market to facilitate expansion into the EU and UK.

• Temporary disinfectant colorant (allowing cleaning staff to verify full surface coverage): Examined how to increase product penetration into the hospital market.

• Vendor assistance for dental support organizations (enhancing the acquisition of dental supplies): Explored what platform features would optimally satisfy customers in large organizations.

• Vendor assistance for dental support organizations (enhancing the acquisition of dental supplies): Considered opportunities to enter the French DSO market.

• AI-based waste sorting (isolating waste streams to facilitate recycling): Researched competitive markets, enhanced value-proposition narrative, and identified new customer opportunities.

• Semiconducting diamond for high-power electronics (generating a next-generation electronics platform): Investigated application areas, conducted market research, and identified partner leads.

Fall 2022 (7 Projects)

• Garage storage platform (providing grab-and-go functionality & unmatched modularity):  Developed the first business plan for the company to facilitate partnering, marketing, and raising capital.

• Rapid home construction (accelerating construction from months to days):  Created a nationally-scalable, offsite growth strategy related to alternative dwelling units (ADUs).

• Healthcare ecosystem optimization (enabling a standardized computer and storage environment):  Developed recommendations for optimizing the physician credential verification process.   

• Insect protein production (enhancing protein content for insects used in food production):  Examined the dynamics of the global insect protein market.

• Online platform for teaching music (creating higher fidelity online teaching experience):  Provided input on sales & marketing, SEO optimization, and business planning activities.

• Live event ticketing (expanding ticket distribution through online platform and networks):  Evaluated best market opportunities and demand levels in selected US metro areas. 

• Energy recovery system (offering high-efficiency recovery in natural gas networks):  Developed a levelized cost of electricity model for a novel turbo-expander generator. 

Fall 2021 (6 Projects)

• Suborbital Space Launch (enabling low-cost, high-frequency spacecraft launches):   Contacted potential customers to evaluate market demand and summarized the business opportunity; refined business plan.

• Agile Robotic Delivery Vehicle (facilitating package movements from truck to recipient):  Considered new market opportunities in vertical markets including beverage, food, and logistics; refined business plan and economic-benefit model.

• Satellite-Based Hyperspectral Imagery (enhancing asset evaluation through space-based monitoring):  Explored the extent the technology could add value to the mining industry. 

• Precrash Sensing Response System (reducing traffic-accident injuries):  Evaluated the viability of client offerings to address the robotic sensor and edge processing market, with an emphasis on warehousing robot suppliers. 

• Blood Flow Imaging (visualize blood flow during surgeries):  Determined what subscription service to charge before market entry and assisted on other market research and business planning.

• Rapid identification of chronic health treatments (leveraging a genomic database of microbes from healthy foods):  Explored the market for medical foods (e.g., paths to the consumer, costs, recommended market mix, and opportunity prioritization).

Fall 2020 (1 Project)

• Urban Intelligence Platform (data and advanced scenario analysis tool for community planning): Supported the development of a client-generated blog post communicating how the platform can assist in planning drone delivery of medicines and vaccines.  Blog post link: Using UrbanFootprint to Plan Drone Delivery of Medicines and Vaccines to Rural Areas

Limited enrollment due to COVID-19 pandemic

Fall 2019 (3 Projects)

• AITS Particle Analysis (ML/AI algorithms enabling accurate & automated analysis of microscopy video data):  Conducted market segmentation analysis, application identification, and customer discovery.

• Rapid HPV Detection (low-cost, non-invasive, rapid-result HPV test):  Performed market research, entry-barrier identification, competitive analysis, and business planning.

• Rideshare Advertising (targeted ads aiding passengers and local businesses):  Developed customer needs, wants, and habits analyses of rideshare passengers.

Fall 2018 (8 Projects)

• Rhinoplasty Surgical Splint (improved results and patient comfort): Conducted competitive analysis, estimated market size, and developed a marketing strategy.

• Eco-Friendly, Latin Fashion (environmentally conscious ethnic clothing): Examined market characteristics and product positioning.

• AI Digital Fitness System (customized injury-recovery assistance): Explored how to expand from professional to consumer athlete market.

• Flex-Fuel Technology (system for optimizing flex-fuel use for fleets): Developed business plan to facilitate future investment.

• Surgical Lighting Solution (better lighting for surgeon comfort): Generated market research including competitive analysis.  

• Enhanced Office Lighting (tailored light quality): Conducted market analysis to support additional capital raise.

• Medication Management (in-home care facilitation): Researched the market and identified partnership opportunities.

• Book Recommendation Service (enhancing experience of readers): Explored opportunity for new product development within existing customer base and beyond.

Fall 2017 (9 Projects)

• Suborbital Rapid Package Delivery (launch payloads into space for fast, accurate, and global delivery):  Identified size and competition of commercial and military market segments for critical express delivery.

• Repurposed Drug (nanosized drug to treat dysbiosis):  Analyzed the opportunity for treatment improvements in peptic ulcers, cystic fibrosis, and ARDS markets.

• AI-Driven Marketing (highly efficient digital marketing):  Explored and identified most promising market segments.

• Weather-Based Truck Routing (high-efficiency route planning and alerts):  Examined innovation value, competition, and opportunities within the long-haul trucking market segment.

• Investor Home Acquisition Service (high-efficiency method for investors to buy homes):  Identified market need and potential customers for service in NC.

• Media Tracker (ad tracking through smart TVs):  Conducted market research and customer segmentation.

• Image Recognition (using images like embedded QR codes):  Conducted market analysis to focus resource and support capital raise.

• Immunotherapy for Chronic Respiratory Diseases (inhaler treatment for CF and IPF):  Characterized the market for innovation within the IPF sector.

• Hands-Free Smartphone Case (rugged, convenient smartphone use on the go):  Examined market segments and obtained potential user feedback.

Fall 2016 (8 Projects)

• Diamond-Like Materials (low-temp, high-hardness, cost-effective coating):  Conducted research and developed strategies for market segments including cutting tools, bearings, and gemstones.  

• Artificial Organ Imaging (non-invasive, real-time assessment of engineered organs):  Executed primary and secondary market research, financial modeling, and go-to-market strategies.

• Blood Flow Imaging (visualize blood flow during surgeries):  Conducted research to update business plan, and explored pricing and reimbursement strategies.  

• Pet Health Care (health tracking and auto feeding for house pets):  Analyzed competition, product validation, marketing strategy, and financial modeling.

• Crowdfunding for College Groups (enabling college groups to more efficiently raise funds):  Examined pros and cons of Student Government Associations as preferred segment for more efficient market penetration.  

• Clinical Trial Medication Adherence (simple biomarker enables trial owner to understand study adherence):  Evaluated sell/license business strategies and preferred business development and licensing targets.  

• Transfusion via Ultrasound Blood Processing (more gentle and safe means to separate particles when processing blood):  Developed go-to-market plan for blood transfusion market, identified regulatory hurdles, and explored additional market applications.

• Cloud-Based Visualization Software (helping businesses better understand internal sales, operations, and business data):  Analyzed competition and how to scale/grow the business. 

Fall 2015 (10 Projects)

• Conductive and Semi-Conductive Polymers (efficient ways to create new families of novel polymers):  Conducted market research to help narrow field of applications for focus in business plan.  

• Graphene Production (cost- and energy-efficient manufacturing technology):  Reviewed existing market research, reached out to prospective customers, developed marketing materials, and analyzed patent landscape.

• Anti-Cancer Treatment (small molecule methods):  Developed elements of business plan and competitive analysis.

• Pacifier Weaning Kit (eliminates dental, medical, and stigma issues with late pacifier retirement):  Generated business plan and related competitive and business analyses.

• Restaurant Delivery Driver Management (using Uber model to manage drivers):  Determined how to better recruit and retain drivers and best local markets for entry.

• Geofence Monitoring Platform (monitoring for remote medical and campus security applications):  Helped to down-select to preferred sectors through market and competitive analyses.

• Autonomous Water Quality Management (drifter devices that increase monitoring efficiency):  Investigated industrial, naval base, pulp mill, and drinking/waste-water segments of the market to influence business planning.

• Energy from Scrap Tires (extract energy and other residuals from tires):  Conducted market, customer, competitive, and out-licensing analyses to support business planning.

• Investment Analysis Algorithm (means for higher investment returns):  Generated market and competitive analyses to support business planning.

• Additive Manufacturing (novel imaging for superior stereolithography):  Researched preferred paths to commercialization by finding parts that customers want fabricated and flaws in competing techniques.

Fall 2014 (9 Projects)

• Enterprise Software-As-a-Service Solution (tracking software via RFIDs):  Conducted market research/sizing and pricing analyses.

• Glaucoma Therapy (eye shunt for human and veterinary markets):  Conducted market sizing, competitor analysis, adoption rate estimation, and information gathering from potential customers about marketing approach and distribution/partnership ideas.

• Colorectal Cancer Treatment (improving treatments usually plagued by diarrhea):  Conducted market analysis and identification of potential technology acquirers via conversations with clinicians and pharma experts.  

• Video Identification System for Lost Pets (using video to enhance pet reclamation):  Developed core business plan elements and suggestions on business model and marketing plans.

• Laser Imaging of Blood Flow During Surgery (non-invasive method that enhances medical outcomes):  Developed marketing plan involving product customization, pricing, and product launch strategies along with some graphical user interface assistance.  

• Date-Rape Drug Detection via Clear-Coat Nail Polish (discrete detection technology):  Revamped business plan and provided input on marketing strategies and how to approach various industries such as the university sector.

• Marine Magnetic Imaging Facility (MRI analysis enhancements):  Conducted initial business planning to identify potential market applications, customers, and business-case scenarios.  

• Authentication Device and Utility for Embedded Computing System (identifying counterfeit electronics in IT supply chain):  Conducted business planning including determining non-government market size and key drivers for technology adoption.  

• Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Detection (using eye movements as window to MTBI):  Conducted business planning and made recommendations regarding various commercialization strategies. 

Fall 2013 (6 Projects)

• Wound Care Perfusion Imaging (real-time imaging of blood flow velocity and perfusion):  Conducted secondary research to understand existing technology alternatives, primary research using Voice of Customer techniques, and strategic assessment for entering these market sectors.

• Muscadine Grapes & Related Products (unique fruit-juice market entrant):  Developed strategies to educate potential customers about the substantial health benefits of Muscadine grapes and conducted associated business modeling.

• Combating Pharma Counterfeiting (authentication of drugs and associated tracking documents):  Conducted product positioning and market analyses. 

• Collaboration Smartphone App (efficient and effective multi-party collaboration):  Explored multiple market sectors / applications and developed value-extraction strategies.

• "Cloud-in-a-Can Solution" (unique private-cloud offerings):  Conducted marketing messaging to enhance customer awareness and market analysis to facilitate marketing strategy development.

• Carbon Quantum Dots (carbon q-dots for drug delivery and imaging):  Conducted market and competitive analyses along with go-to-market strategies.

Fall 2012 (7 Projects)

• Line Up Media (interactive news media for smartphones):  Conducted a market analysis on this new mobile platform that merges multiple media and direct user interfaces to create a revolutionary customer experience.

• Luxury Handbags (luxury handbags for professional women):   Developed an e-commerce strategy to drive high-end Web site traffic via methods including Facebook and Google ads.

• Microglassification (method for preserving biologics to facilitate drug delivery):   Developed competitive and market analyses to identify best market sectors for product entry and associated strategies and business models.

• Biomarkers for Detecting Invasive Aspergillosis (early detection of the most frequent fungal cause of death in immunocompromised patients):  Conducted a classic market analysis and background for business plan development.

• GnomeRunner (smartphone app for web content screening & delivery):  Studied the market viability, monetization opportunities, and value creation for the app platform. 

• Clean-Air Fluorescent Diffuser (nanophotocatalytic-coated light covers that actively improve indoor air quality):  Conducted a competitive and market analysis on pursuing an "active" diffuser product including identifying competing materials, companies currently supplying diffusers, size of diffuser market, and anticipated product buyers.

• London Eye-Like Attraction (novel design of an observation wheel attraction for US cities):  Evaluated the business case for pursuing installation in US Cities, including competitive, market, and intellectual property analyses.

Fall 2011 (6 Projects)

• Extreme Loading Software (software enabling more accurate prediction of how an engineered structure will react to an extreme loading event): Evaluated the global market for ELS, developed strategies to enhance sales in various countries, and identified new applications/markets.

• Portable Visual Field Testing Using Android Smartphone and Video Eyewear (using mobile technology to provide less expensive and more comfortable visual testing and glaucoma screening):  Conducted market & competitive analyses and developed marketing strategies to aid the inventor with commercialization.

• Nuclear Radiation Testing in US and Japanese Markets (making ultra-sensitive, radio-bioassay services more commercially accessible and affordable): Determined the market opportunity in the US and Japan (since sponsor had already penetrated the market in Canada) and created associated go-to-market plans (i.e., service positioning, branding, pricing, sales channels, and marketing plan).

• Bioinformatics Data Analysis Platform for Genomics and Synthetic Biology – Applications Beyond Pathogen Identification (using computational tools based upon identification and analysis of "genomic barcodes" to enable more processing speed and accuracy than standard bioinformatic techniques): Provided broad market research and competitive landscape assessment for all applications of the platform to help identify unmet needs and prioritize among market opportunities.  Included more deeply analyzing specific market opportunities related to the Agricultural-biotechnology area (all to help sponsor develop a better business plan).

• Anti-Infective Coatings to Decrease Infections from Hemodialysis Catheters (versatile, durable, and uniform catheter coatings to decrease infections): Conducted classic market and competitive analysis to lay the groundwork for business-plan and partnership development.

• Switched Ethernet Rings Technology for  Energy Efficient Networks (architecture that significantly reduces power consumption in computer networks): Developed strategy for introducing a revolutionary concept into an established, hi-tech market, evaluated market potential for this product in cloud computing and consumer broadband applications, and determined product requirements by interviewing potential customers.

Fall 2010 (7 Projects)

• Biohmic Systems Biosensor (bioFET sensor for detecting biological targets in acute medical diagnostics applications): Evaluated market dynamics and competitive landscape for the Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) market, including current trends and future growth potential. Work included competitive analysis to other sensor platforms.

• FreeHand Endoscopic Surgical Device (minimally invasive surgical tool with improved articulation): Assessed the need, and desirable specifications, for a minimally invasive surgical tool through primary research with renowned surgeons. Performed market analysis to determine past and predicted future sales figures for similar tools, as well as a search of past acquisitions to assist in potential licensing/acquisition deal terms for the firm.

• Online Marketplace for R&D (open innovation model for publicizing prizes for solutions to complex research and development problems): Assisted in developing business plan through primary research with top innovation executives from Fortune 500 firms in order to evaluate the viability of an online marketplace for R&D, as well as any desirable specifications for such a system. Indentified specific markets and firms most adept to adopting an open innovation business model for R&D.

• International Technology Center Plasma (atmospheric plasma exhibiting the highest combination of current density and application area): Identified numerous applications for an improved atmospheric plasma technology and utilized primary and secondary market research to determine the most promising markets. Conducted competitive analysis to determine necessary technological characteristics and the cost (e.g., raw materials, cost savings for customer over time, etc.) of implementing such a system.

• Physcient Assuage Surgical Retractor (surgical device utilizing novel blade design and built-in sensors for smooth and steady retraction): Identified market need for improved retraction, including desired features and functionality, through primary market research with surgeons worldwide. Provided route for commercialization based on feedback from surgeons, hospital administrative staff, and potential industry partners.

• SecTec Consulting Software (eLearning software for starting, building, and selling businesses): Determined appropriate cost structure and price points for various e-learning modules. Provided strategic recommendations for improving software functionality and broadening potential market penetration based on interactions with end-users.

• Ultra-Precise Optical Scalpel (nano-enabled ophthalmic laser with improved focusing and prevision): Identified most promising medical applications utilizing primary and secondary research. Based on interactions with surgeons and industry contacts, provided strategic plan for licensing and/or partnering in order to gain funding for further development and the ultimate commercialization of the device.

Fall 2009 (5 Projects)

• Gecko Adhesion Technology (low-cost method to produce "one-sided velcro"): Evaluated the commercial viability of method for using nanofibers to cost effectively emulate reversible adhesion which was bio-inspired by observing the gecko.  Described major target markets/applications in order to develop a comprehensive plan for commercialization.

• Novel Glaucoma Drainage Device (minimizing eye pressure through shunt-based drainage to treat glaucoma): Performed in-depth market/competitive analyses and developed a licensing strategy by addressing future IP and sub-licensing concerns.

• Solar Stream Evacuated Tubes Solar Thermal Collection System (improved solar collection manifold for electricity generation): Provided product launch scenario for very early stage technology, including identifying the value chain, incentives for various markets, and potential price points.

• TeleSwivel Hitch Connection (improved trailer hitch linkage system): Identified potential markets/applications and conducted thorough analysis of competing technologies and intellectual property in order to find commercial market for product which has been successful in military sector.

• Valencell Healthset Technology (embedded wireless technology for monitoring health status during exercise): Analyzed market trends and competing technologies and created a survey to assess real-world consumer demographics and interests.

Fall 2008 (6 Projects)

• Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) Actuated Catheter Technology (computer-based, minimally invasive robotic catheters): Developed a high-level business plan including conducting market research, identifying customers, crafting business strategy, and developing preliminary financials.

• Discrete Prompting Device (teaching device for individuals with a variety of learning disorders): Provided insight as to the commercialization potential including market size, customer profile, product pricing points, and identification of potential companies that may be interested in sub-licensing the product.  

• Helical Sciences (DNA-based pathogen detection technology for food, water, and pharmaceutical testing): Developed a business plan including conducting market research, identifying key customers and competitors, and developing business strategy.

• Microphase Coatings (hydrophobic and ice-phobic coatings): Differentiated market dynamics and key drivers for success in the hydrophobic and ice-phobic coatings markets, including identifying new competitive technologies and potential customers.

• AC Drive System for Electrically Operated Vehicle (AC drive technology developed by E-Z-GO for use on electric golf carts): Determined applicability of the AC drive outside of the golf car and utility vehicle markets by identifying new potential target markets, quantifying the technologies benefits in those markets, and performing royalty rate analysis to optimize licensing efforts.

• TNT Sensor (patented polymer that dramatically decreases cost of TNT detection): Performed due diligence of addressable markets and competitive positioning in order to develop strategy and business plan.

Fall 2007 (12 Projects)

• Biogas Refinery via Cellulosic Feedstocks (biomass renewable energy opportunity):  Developed a commercialization plan for biogasoline based on the market dynamics including government regulations, grants and tax incentives, technology trends and intellectual property rights.

• Handheld, Micro Mass Spec for Environmental Monitoring (portable method for chemical analysis):  Evaluated the commercial viability of a handheld, low-cost mass spectrometer.

• New Markets for Pulse Oximetry (finding new markets for a core competency):  Assessed the commercialization viability of utilizing pulse oximetry to determine the advancement of diabetic nephropathy in the dialysis clinic setting. 

• Concentrator Photovoltaics for Cost-Effective Solar Power (novel designs of solar cells):  Identified various go-to-market strategies for CPV technology to successfully enter the PV marketplace. 

• Paints for Healthy Living (creating coatings which actively protect against germs):  Developed a commercialization plan for bringing a healthy-room paint to market. 

• Aqueous Solutions on Demand (adding water to solutions at point of use):  Identified new markets for sponsor technology & develop commercialization plans for those with the most significant market potential.

• Microwave Soil Sterilization for Agribusiness (pesticide-free means for sterilizing pre-plant soil):  Assessed the opportunity for and developed the business case surrounding the commercialization of a microwave sterilization device for agribusiness.

• Power Generation via Airport-Harvested Wind (turning plane-generated wind into renewable energy source):  Assessed the opportunity for and developed the business case surrounding the commercialization of a wind harvesting system at airports.

• Infant Incubators for the Developing World (helping babies in need):  Estimated the market size and potential partners for entering the third-world incubator market.

• Joboroo Job Board Manager (streamlining job-board posting):  Developed a marketing plan for commercialization.

• Jova (career management tools for the new generation of job seekers):  Developed a market and competitive analysis feeding into the development of a business case for the service, a value proposition and product description, and a marketing plan for service roll-out. 

• Reducing Infantile Jaundice in the Developing World (using light therapy to treat conditions):  Provided marketing planning and some lead generation for pending startup venture.  

Fall 2006 (8 Projects)

• Hyperspectral Camera for Imaging Applications (imaging of EM spectrum):  Identified which markets sponsor should focus on in the near term to navigate various partnership, licensing, financing and marketing opportunities.

• Photogenesis Therapy for Third-World Countries (using light to treat conditions):  Evaluated the current market for phototherapy units in the developing world and the extent to which a non-profit offering could aid centers of need.

• Piezo MEMS Ultrasonic Transducers for Biomedical Applications (novel devices for medical applications):  Assessed the commercial potential of pMUTs against alternative imaging technologies and evaluated business case / market opportunities. 

• Surface Modification of Surgical Cutting Instruments for Improved Patient Outcomes (expanding polishing markets into medical sectors):  Examined the market need and potential for improving the surfaces of cutting edges for medical applications with particular emphasis on surgical scalpels.

• Structures in Motion for Luxury Homes (finding new applications for kinetic architecture):  Determined the market size and marketing strategy for offering moveable structures for homes in excess of ten million dollars in market value.

• Photo Mounting for Camera and Design Enthusiasts (innovative methods for displaying photos):  Explored market channels and awareness-building strategies for reaching two different target markets.

• Novel Break Dust Covers for Car Enthusiasts (ornamental innovation):  Evaluated the business opportunity, case, and strategy for introducing a new product into a niche market.

• Applications for Innovative Carbon Nanotube Membranes (Buckypaper):   Identified potential applications, downselected most promising, evaluated market potential, and plotted market entry strategy for top candidates.

Fall 2005 (10 projects)

• Making Diesel Fuel from Coal (novel energy sources): Conducted an opportunity/market analysis, assessed the commercial potential, and proposed commercialization strategies.

• eCommerce Solution (online-store service): Helped Sponsor to understand landscape of competing offerings, how their offering compared, and proposed marketing and value-extraction options for the asset.

• Cost-Effective Prosthetics for Amputees (artificial limbs for people in need): Explored the challenge of supplying cost-effective prosthetics to third-world countries and proposed creative solutions for meeting the challenge.

• PadPoint (new mouse-like device for computers): Assessed commercial opportunity and developed value extraction strategies.

• IP Mapping Software (mapping patent space): Evaluated various business models and provided strategic recommendations.

• IdeaBank (software for managing new corporate ideas): Helped Sponsor to understand the competitive landscape, identified potential customers, and proposed ideas for future marketing opportunities.

• Kitchen Brain (concept for creating smart appliances): Evaluated the commercial potential and provided introductory business-plan ideas.

• Valuing Tech Transfer Deals (tech transfer tool development): Developed a credible, simple, and useful method for valuing technology transfer deals

• Donated Display Patents (flat-panel display suite): Analyzed a subset of Compaq-donated display patents to facilitate license negotiations and commercialization strategy development.

• PhaseCoat UFR (antifouling coating for marine industry): Identified strategies for Sponsor to succeed in selling their coating into the marine market.