UT Austin's Simulation and Game Applications (SAGA) Lab develops software for funded projects and assists in preparing grant proposals. We create games, interactive/immersive environments, mobile apps, web dashboards, game-simulations, and VR/AR software solutions. The SAGA Lab and partnering UT faculty co-design the software solution, which is developed by paid student-interns. We have a long track record of creating software solutions for research and education spanning nearly 10 years.

The Office of Technology Commercialization helps UT researchers monetize software and creative content they develop while at the university. The Office of Technology Commercialization can help researchers find the optimal license type and distribution strategy for such work, which includes open sourcing. The Office of Technology Commercialization also helps with finding commercialization partners, negotiating licenses, and supporting startups.

Every semester, the LaunchPad gives out $15K in grant money (ranging from $500-$5,000) for undergrad students pursuing an entrepreneurial opportunity. Grants can be used for projects related to customer discovery, prototype development, pilot deployment, travel expenses, living stipends for unpaid and/or low-paying startup internships, and more. Priority is given to students participating in UGS programs and Success Initiatives across campus.

StartupTree is an online platform that aggregates entrepreneurship events, opportunities, mentorship, and startup jobs and internships at UT Austin.

The Sustainability Education and Enterprise Development (SEED) program is more than just a competition. Unlike other challenges that occur over a shorter period, we provide mentorship, curriculum, and networking opportunities for students over two semesters. Our goal is to train future problem solvers to address root problems through a sustainability lens – not just to give a great pitch. SEED’s long-term mission is to create a collaborative network of educational institutions, impact businesses, and community programs to train youth to become sustainability innovation leaders in any career through education and experiential learning.

The Drug Dynamics Institute focuses on innovators who are developing novel drug therapies, devices, diagnostics, and digital health solutions. Our courses emphasize the importance of team-based, applied learning across multiple disciplines, including Pharmacy, Engineering, Natural Sciences, Business, and more. Courses include Fundamentals of Health Innovations, Health Innovation Entrepreneurship Practicum, and Health Innovation Dexterity (in development).

Texas Global Faculty Research Seed Grants support faculty with peer collaborators at institutions abroad to conduct research that addresses global challenges. Seed is available to pursue a new research project with a peer collaborator at a leading institution/organization with which UT has an existing partnership, or an institution/organization with which UT Austin would like to explore development of a new partnership. Projects focused on entrepreneurship and innovation are invited to apply.

The Texas Innovation Center offers a personalized environment for faculty and students to explore entrepreneurship that includes educational workshops, speaker series, coaching sessions, and direct guidance for technology commercialization pathways; from ideation to market validation to fundraising. We accomplish this through Startup-In-A-Box Resources, TxIC Friends and Mentors Network, Innovation Lab, and co-working space. A place to inspire, create and commercialize.

The Texas Proof of Concept (POC) Awards provide internal funding to researchers on a competitive basis. Awards serve as a bridge to demonstrate the feasibility of a technology to either attract a commercial partner through licensing or validate the case for establishing a startup. POC Awards (up to $25K) and Texas+ POC Awards (up to $125K in 1:1 match) are focused on helping de-risk inventions to an inflection point in value. Click Learn More for details on the current application cycle.

Texas Venture Mentoring Service (TEXVMS) has assembled over 100 expert mentors to support startups in the many entrepreneurship programs at UT Austin. TEXVMS's intensive team mentoring methodology surrounds startups with diverse expertise tailored to each company's unique needs. Mentors provide practical, actionable advice with a focus on developing the entrepreneur. Startups with any UT Austin connection may apply: university IP, faculty/student founder, or participation in another UT program.