tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90701612012-02-16T10:01:55.119-08:00Innovators unite! No more hiding in dusty basements! A blog by Anne Swift of Young Inventors International (http://www.younginventorsinternational.com).Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.comBlogger691100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-10757229745932104482007-03-05T21:45:00.001-08:002007-03-05T21:45:57.041-08:00

My brother, Victor (aka Vix), just recorded a new song and it's really cool! Check it out!

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-91767015664629539872007-01-14T19:29:00.000-08:002007-01-14T19:32:32.350-08:00

My Dad (who likes to keep informed about the latest trends in technology) recently sent me a note about Wikinomics, a cool upcoming book about the trend of collaborative content creation. One of the chapters of the book will even be created by the site's visitors!

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1168707627715622982007-01-13T08:54:00.000-08:002007-01-13T09:00:28.120-08:00

I'm always a proponent of collaboration and synergy across disciplines.Industrial design has always appeared to me to be an ideal field for encouraging dialog across disciplines (the first Young Inventors' BrainBuzz was held at the Design Exchange in Toronto and brought together industrial design students with engineers and business majors). It seems that GE, BMW, and Nestle agree.

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1163257016037608202006-11-11T06:55:00.000-08:002006-11-11T06:56:56.213-08:00

Read my Campus Life Magazine about building teams.

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1160192956594178262006-10-06T20:48:00.000-07:002006-10-06T20:49:16.896-07:00

Read my column for inventors and entrepreneurs in Campus Life Magazine: Ready, Set, Start-Up!

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1159034412468121272006-09-23T10:39:00.000-07:002006-09-23T11:00:13.173-07:00

My youngest brother, Vix, formed a band - The Hours After.Vix just called me to let me know that the band is one of the top 10 finalists in Roger's Stage Star competition , with $10,000 and a recording deal up for grabs. I'm rooting for them!Listen to one of their songs on Purevolume.

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1156606283249491312006-08-26T08:27:00.000-07:002006-08-26T08:31:30.173-07:00

I haven't posted in quite some time because of illness and a long drive back across the country (from San Jose, CA to Pittsburgh, PA) on which I had the opportunity to practice my driving skills on a manual transmission.Nevertheless, an interesting read has crossed my desk: the USPTO's recently-released five-year strategic plan to promote innovation and competitiveness. The USPTO is looking for

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1154741615231771612006-08-04T18:30:00.000-07:002006-08-04T18:33:35.443-07:00

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of attending my second SVASE event. The event's topic was "Raising Capital For Early Stage Tech Companies – The Definitive Crash Course!" With a dynamic panel of four investors, there was no way that this event could be a miss!- Ravi Mhatre, General Partner, Lightspeed Venture Partners- Warren Packard, Managing Director, DFJ (Draper Fisher Jurvetson)- Bill Reichert

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1153931025818046692006-07-26T09:23:00.000-07:002006-07-26T09:23:49.196-07:00

This morning, I have been tuning in and out of the broadcast from AlwaysOn Stanford Summit.I am enthralled by the broadcasting technology (and seamlessness of the broadcast and simultaneous chat). Most recently, I tuned into a panel discussing the secrets behind contagious behavior. The key, it seemed, was allowing messiness into organizations. An interesting concept and one embraced by many

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1153885692168910942006-07-25T20:42:00.000-07:002006-07-25T20:49:58.143-07:00

The room brimmed with aspiring entrepreneurs at today's standing-room-only SVASE StartupU event at the Pillsbury Winthrop offices in Silicon Valley.The guest speaker was Jeremy Liew, Partner at Lightspeed Venture Partners. The topic: Making the First Validating Sale for a Startup.I was very excited to hear Jeremy give estimates of client and user statistics that would impress VCs. I liked the

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1153412968103961132006-07-20T09:27:00.000-07:002006-07-20T09:29:28.176-07:00

If you think it's tough finding an investor, you won't be surprised that only 3,000 VC deals were completed between 2002 and 2005 in the US. Time to rethink your strategy - perhaps bootstrapping your business to first - and subsequent - clients?

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1153412840651273762006-07-20T09:16:00.000-07:002006-07-20T09:27:21.113-07:00

For those first-time CEOs, Redeye VC blogger Josh Kopelman talks about getting things done. I've heard from a number of VCs that an inability to say "no" is a liability of many first-time CEOs. A recent VC complaint: rather than running his company, the CEO would give presentations and talks about his success at conferences.

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1153247519465728572006-07-18T11:31:00.000-07:002006-07-18T11:31:59.966-07:00

I am spending time in Silicon Valley this summer to better get to know the cradle of entrepreneurship. I have been attending a number of events in the area to get to know the community and I am greatly looking forward to attending four different types of events hosted by the Silicon Valley Association for Start-Up Entrepreneurs (SVASE). Since its inception in 1995, the organization has been

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1152127533672082222006-07-05T12:25:00.000-07:002006-07-05T12:25:36.420-07:00

Pushing the barriers of Web 2.0 is YouOS, developed a web-based operating system. YouOS leverages online collaboration tools and provides remote access to your desktop. Developed by four recent college grads (from both coasts), YouOS may be able to bring collaboration to a new level by enabling people to log onto their desktop anywhere in the world and collaborate with an impressive suite of

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1151509973831172042006-06-28T08:49:00.000-07:002006-06-28T08:52:54.223-07:00

Cool site: LibraryThing. The site lets users create a virtual bookshelf (hopefully of books they have actually read, not just ones that look particularly impressive). It also includes reviews of books and an overview of the most popular books (I was disappointed to see Harry Potter ranked so highly above many of the classics).Regardless, I am excited by this "Rotten Tomatoes" of books because

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1150993677471569792006-06-22T08:49:00.000-07:002006-06-22T09:27:57.943-07:00

Everywhere I look, I seem to be coming across Ether, a start-up that helps people sell their expertise by phone through telephone consulting.The idea: You sign up with Ether and specify your fee per call or per minute. Your phone rings and you're notified that it's an Ether call and that the person on the other end is seeking your advice. You bill by the minute or call. Ether takes 10%-15% of

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1150839804359667112006-06-20T14:30:00.000-07:002006-06-20T14:43:24.980-07:00

In the last few months, several students have asked me what it takes to become a venture capitalist. And, since it seems once one is asked about red cars, one starts seeing red cars everywhere, I have been picking up various bits and pieces about developing a career in the business.Today, I came across an interesting article from Red Herring that describes the venture capital industry and

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1150506041762400492006-06-16T17:49:00.000-07:002006-06-16T18:02:50.846-07:00

Always wondering how to explain what seems to be an aberrant tolerance for ambiguity (if not risk) successful entrepreneurs, I was intrigued by a theory by Dr. John Gartner of Johns Hopkins University.The theory, delineated in Dr. Garnter's new book, Hypomanic Edge, suggests that entrepreneurs (and political leaders) are genetically predisposed to their professions.My curiousity is peaked,

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1150301001064801172006-06-14T08:53:00.000-07:002006-06-14T09:03:21.666-07:00

Which is more valuable?According to the U.S. Under Secretary of Commerce for Technology, a large federal database of research will be more effective at advancing commercialization that grants bridging the gap between lab and market.In an interview with MIT Technology Review, the Secretary says that venture capitalists will bridge the gap with early-stage funding once they understand the

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1150246098412489362006-06-13T17:41:00.000-07:002006-06-13T17:48:18.653-07:00

A report from the IRS states that university-funded technology incubators and early-stage capital programs do not detract from the nonprofit, educational purpose of the institution.This fascinating ruling points to an interesting dichotomy in the role of research universities: the focus on basic and highly applied research. If universities had traditionally focused on basic research that

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1150047258957354722006-06-11T10:31:00.000-07:002006-06-11T10:34:21.676-07:00

Following my last post on blogs as great places for virtual brainstorming, I came across a great list of links from InnovationTools, which lists web sites that use various means of encouraging online brainstorming of solutions to problems.Some of them may serve as inspiration; some can even make you money.

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1149610916200101402006-06-06T08:52:00.000-07:002006-06-09T18:53:52.996-07:00

I regularly read Dennis Crouch's Patently-O blog.I read the comments for a recent entry and realized that the comments (most likely from other patent lawyers) could help in the interpretation of the presented case.That led me to think that blogs could be very interesting tools for brainstorming solutions to problems. I know that this was also the intent of wikis, but I find the traditional wiki

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1149272236912439612006-06-02T11:14:00.000-07:002006-06-02T11:17:17.656-07:00

For many months, I had completely forgotten about a nifty methodology for creating new products and spurring innovatioBlogger: Innovators' Hub :: Create Postn: TRIZ. A method designed by a Russian inventor, TRIZ seems to have re-gained its popularity with corporate innovators, as well.

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1149201430736488992006-06-01T15:32:00.000-07:002006-06-01T15:37:12.756-07:00

The Kauffman Foundation has published a report that shows that high net-worth women are underrepresented among angel investors. Sadly, this does not come as a surprise. The report also provides details about angel groups founded and managed by women. Many of these will likely sound familiar.

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1149092543653129842006-05-31T09:14:00.000-07:002006-05-31T09:22:25.800-07:00

When I started working with the Innovation Systems Research Network at the University of Toronto a few years ago, I suspected that the concept of networks of innovation was a powerful lens for understanding the process of innovation.IBM's Global Innovation Outlook Report details the rise of global communication networks and their impact on encouraging innovation through collaboration between

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1148964965651981602006-05-29T21:23:00.000-07:002006-05-29T21:56:05.876-07:00

Speaking of outsourcing innovation, Procter & Gamble is sourcing innovation from the outside in. The outsourcing of invention and innovation is particularly encouraging to independent inventors and SMEs.

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1148842322619132782006-05-28T11:51:00.000-07:002006-05-29T12:40:37.676-07:00

A new study by Booz Allen Hamilton and INSEAD suggests that companies are increasingly outsourcing research and innovation to foreign markets.Although the R&D activities of companies based in Western Europe are the most dispersed, North American companies have been increasing their outsourcing activity. Not surprisingly, most of the R&D activity from the U.S. seems to be heading to China and

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1148159451513402082006-05-20T14:03:00.000-07:002006-05-20T15:31:45.640-07:00

I'll be traveling next week and so won't have a chance to post often. I'm using my BlackBerry as a modem, which is incredibly slow but handy in emergencies.While on the road, I'll be reading Joseph Schumpeter's The Theory of Economic Development, which is a precursor to his Capitalism, Socialism, and Democracy (and creative destruction). I've been told that Economic Development is Schumpeter's

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1148087922676002022006-05-19T18:07:00.000-07:002006-05-19T18:18:43.693-07:00

I recently read an article that encourages innovators to be more audacious, stating that although more risky, audiacious ideas have the power to bring more rewards.While "audaciousness" can certainly bring many rewards, first time entrepreneurs with audacious ideas may have great difficulties with market entry. Besides having to prove an already-risky idea, they may not have the benefit of

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1147836994461654692006-05-16T20:00:00.000-07:002006-05-16T20:36:34.736-07:00

Statscan recently published a report that indicates that the potential for innovation in Canada is just as strong as in the United States; the report release was picked up by the Globe and Mail. The study gauges innovation capabilities based on employment data, particularly employment in science and technology-based occupation (as measured by scientists and engineers).While I believe that talent

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1147624711522628992006-05-14T09:29:00.000-07:002006-05-14T09:38:31.596-07:00

Patent trolls have been in the North American headlines recently because of the NTP v. RIM case. With the increasing recognition of intellectual property as a valuable asset, it is no surprise that patent trolls are, well, trolling. I came across a fascinating article today that cites examples of universities acting as patent trolls.While that may be true, I can't help but wonder whether the

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1147624159281021622006-05-14T09:28:00.000-07:002006-05-14T09:29:19.640-07:00

Resonating again with my fascination for inventions and intellectual property (and my perpetual quest for a great laugh) is the IP Funny Blog.

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1147445272367966152006-05-12T07:42:00.000-07:002006-05-12T07:47:53.050-07:00

Yesterday, I learned about NeuroLife Noninvasive Solutions, a start-up out of Carnegie Mellon University that won the McCombs' Moot Corp Competition.The team has invented the world's first noninvasive intracranial pressure diagnostic device. Since intracranial pressure can kill patients within five minutes, rapid diagnosis is crucial. Furthermore, since measuring intracranial pressure by

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1147277623520828742006-05-10T09:10:00.000-07:002006-05-10T09:13:44.140-07:00

If you are an entrepreneur waiting to hear back from investors (or if you think you might find yourself in this position), Mike Hirschland blogs about the difficulties of saying no to entrepreneurs.

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1147190948550255462006-05-09T09:06:00.000-07:002006-05-09T09:09:08.783-07:00

The USPTO is launching a pilot project to allow for peer review of patent applications and citations, including a ranking system for relevance of prior art.Whoa. This is collaboration and social networking harnessed for the purpose of driving innovation. The way of the future.

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1147190767749628972006-05-09T09:05:00.000-07:002006-05-09T09:06:08.333-07:00

This morning, I was captivated by Mike Klein's contribution to the Wisconsin Technology Network.Mike discusses the missing link in "innovation," which is a trend and buzzword of the moment. Want proof? Check out the "innovate" or some play on the word used as a slogan used by HP, 3M, and IBM, for instance. Anyway, with the proliferation of innovation, there has been a rise in the number of

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1147097102161152492006-05-08T06:57:00.000-07:002006-05-08T07:05:02.603-07:00

I used to work for Cleantech Ventures. Recently, I met the judging chair of the California Clean Tech Open. Then, I found a blog by VC Rob Day about cleantech investing.The support networks for cleantech growth are very exciting. Since some clean technologies are yet unproven, they may find challenges in traditional avenues for raising capital. Competitions and venture fairs can help to

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1146757756115566592006-05-04T08:27:00.000-07:002006-05-04T08:49:38.796-07:00

As some of you may know, one of my original interests in innovation was spawned by the intellectual property system and its effectiveness as an incentive mechanism for inventors.Of particular interest to me is a recent paper by Margo Bagley of Emory Law School, "Academic Disclosure and Patent Rights." The academic adage of publish or perish might become publish and perish as far as any patent

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1146493544908703442006-05-01T07:16:00.000-07:002006-05-01T07:25:45.323-07:00

As part of my preparation for graduate school this fall, one of my future advisors suggested that I read The Origin and Evolution of New Businesses by Amar V. Bhide. I have been absorbed in the book on my long train ride from Pittsburgh to Boston (I took the train to catch up on work and reading) and I find that I cannot put the book down. I think it may be the most insightful book that I have

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1146325958381523942006-04-29T08:52:00.000-07:002006-04-29T08:52:39.526-07:00

Every once in a while, I Technorati This! myself or Young Inventors. (Not quite as graceful a phrase as "I Google myself," but it will do).I regularly give talks at universities (most recently at Boston University, Northeastern University, and Olin College). A student who attended one of these talks presents a great overview of what I had covered. As he says, his notes only skim the surface,

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1142632829118188702006-03-17T13:53:00.000-08:002006-03-17T14:00:29.456-08:00

Two things have kept me busy:1. The Young Inventors' conference at MIT (which was a great success!). Thank you to the MIT Public Service Center.2. Accepting an offer from Carnegie Mellon University's doctoral program in Strategy, Entrepreneurship, and Technological Change. I turned down offers from Harvard University, University of Texas at Austin and a few other universities because I felt that

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1140058719400171982006-02-15T18:51:00.000-08:002006-02-15T18:58:40.063-08:00

I've spent the last few weeks busy preparing for the Young Inventors' conference at MIT. There are still a few spots available, so feel free to check it out.Even amidst conference preparations, something came across my desk today that I HAD to post: Ocean Tomo will be offering the world's first ever patent auction.I'm really excited about the concept because:1. I've been wondering for years how

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1138466427114554152006-01-28T08:34:00.000-08:002006-01-28T08:40:27.533-08:00

Recognizing the revenue-generating potential of licensed technologies, research institutions and universities are beginning to explore new avenues of harnessing the commercial benefits of research.Inside Higher Ed reports that more institutions are beginnging to form partnerships with corporations and assigning co-ownership rights to technologies thus developed jointly. The model provides

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1138050875691055872006-01-23T13:10:00.000-08:002006-01-23T13:14:36.536-08:00

During my last year as an undergraduate at the University of Toronto, I spent time with the research team of the Innovation Systems Research Network. I was fascinated by the concept of technology clusters (check out Richard Florida's book, The Rise of the Creative Class), and whether their performance could be measured. Particularly challenging was determining the causal relationships in

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1137269392583110782006-01-14T12:09:00.000-08:002006-04-29T08:43:48.770-07:00

An update from MIT Technology Review describes how the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is harnessing the power of metatags and social networks to deal with an onslaught of patents to be reviewed, particularly for software.According to the article, the USPTO aims to:1. Create a centralized, searchable repository of all open-source code and related documentation in existence;2.

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1136831983470746652006-01-09T10:39:00.000-08:002006-01-14T12:10:58.170-08:00

In my studies of innovation clusters, talent was always one of the indicators of the success of economic development. Thus, attracting, training, and retaining talented innovators and entrepreneurs seems to be a key ingredient for regional growth.In a recent Globe & Mail commentary, Roger Martin, the Dean of the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto, attested that Canada does

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1136583760452608862006-01-06T13:42:00.000-08:002006-01-06T13:42:40.980-08:00

I often come across inventors so excited by their ideas that they toss and turn at night. While ideas are fabulous, innovators need to expend more energy on analyzing the viability of their ideas. Asking about specific customers who would buy the product is a great start.However, inventors must also be realistic about the amount of time, money, and expertise that it takes to bring a new idea to

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1130731790902053762005-10-30T20:02:00.000-08:002005-10-30T20:09:50.916-08:00

Can the development of technology in a region spur economic growth?Technology-based economic development theorists certainly think so. I am fascinated by the topic (relating to my past research of clusters, most of which were based on high-tech). Can technology drive innovation? Perhaps with the right mix of business talent ... and a pinch of funding (or, as in the case of biotech, several

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1128782539551069082005-10-08T07:17:00.000-07:002005-10-08T07:42:21.730-07:00

An interesting question arises as universities become increasingly interested and involved in commercialization: what is the role of the university? Should it be pursuing pure research that would not be conducted without the assistance of research funding set aside specifically for this type of research? What percentage of its resources should be directed toward applied research activities?

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1124573348094645892005-08-20T14:27:00.000-07:002005-08-20T14:29:08.100-07:00

As an ardent follower of all things related to supporting innovation, the recent report on SMEs published by the Canadian Government greatly intrigued me (and, in some cases, disturbed me: check out how drastically private equity financing declines after the year 2000).

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1121959166141237392005-07-21T08:16:00.000-07:002005-07-21T08:19:26.146-07:00

Cool resources and hot tips for innovators have moved!You can now get your does of hot tips and cool resources several times a week - and in specific areas, including:- Commercialization- Raising capital- Intellectual property protection- Market researchVisit Young Inventors International for further details. If you're an innovator under the age of 35, join our international network for free.

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1121231943929467482005-07-12T21:57:00.000-07:002005-07-12T22:19:03.936-07:00

I have always been fascinated by the "process" of commercialization.Although it does seem to have some key elements (product development, financing thereof, protection of intellectual property, etc.), it seems far from linear. That slight bit of chaos and uncertainty enthralls me.That is why, when I find a model that purports to facilitate the process of bringing a technology to market, I always

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1121059684641497282005-07-10T22:24:00.000-07:002005-07-14T16:30:31.000-07:00

Cool Resource:Howstuffworks - Search for "marketing plan," for example, and you get a wonderful article about the elements of marketing plans. Useful for much more than just finding out how vacuum cleaners work!Hot Tip:Working too hard as an entrepreneur? Wondering if you're cut out for the job? If you're uncertain, you can still profit from your invention. License it for development and sale by

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1120880722757940162005-07-08T20:27:00.000-07:002005-07-08T20:45:30.016-07:00

Bryan: thank you for your comment. I was interested in finding out that Kirzner is the leading authority on Ludwig von Mises:0)Lest we get too technical in our love for economics, I wanted to let you know that I agree with your thoughts: progress results because of both minor (incremental) and major (radical) innovations. And I don't think that entrepreneurship is on its way out any time soon (

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1120449739871506742005-07-03T20:54:00.000-07:002005-07-03T21:02:19.876-07:00

Cool Resource:Flintbox - To follow up on my post about finding a technology to license, Flintbox provides a searchable database of technologies for just this purpose. While you're at it, check out BirchBob, too.Hot Tip:Focus! Don't try to offer a product or technology that solves all of your customer's ills. All you need to do is solve a problem that the customer finds relevant. Speak with

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1120147181851364162005-06-30T08:46:00.000-07:002005-06-30T08:59:41.856-07:00

I first heard about "creative destruction" in an economics course.Fascinatinated, and of a curious nature, I began to read Joseph Schumpeter's Capitalism, Socialism, and Democracy. <br> Anyway, the book was an amazing insight into business cycles and how innovation contributes to these cycles. Essentially, by "creative destruction," Schumpeter means that innovations destroy

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1119985012173167582005-06-28T11:48:00.000-07:002005-06-28T11:56:52.176-07:00

Cool Resource:EntreWorld - an incredibly comprehensive site with links to entrepreneurship resources. I've been lost in it for hours and always come away with interesting tid-bits. An invaluable project of the Kauffman Foundation (along with the Kauffman Fellows Program offered by the organization - check it out if you're interested in an intensive internship in the venture capital industry or

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1119895288411621142005-06-27T10:47:00.000-07:002005-06-27T11:06:28.616-07:00

For the last few years, I've been intrigued by the "cluster" economic development theory, which attributes the growth of economic regions to the concept of a cluster of experts, institutions, and resources in a geographical area.The foremost expert on this topic (and one who has been working to apply his findings to real communities around the world) is Michael Porter at Harvard. I've also

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1119451531105493312005-06-22T07:32:00.000-07:002005-06-22T07:45:31.113-07:00

Cool Resource of the Week:AlwaysOn Network - blogging taken to a new level (much more than just ego-stroking; there's a wealth of information here, if you're willing to dig).Get-Going Goal:Intellectual property protection is much more than just patenting. Visit the United States Patent and Trademark Office web site or the Canadian Intellectual Property Organization to find out about various

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1119033400703784692005-06-17T11:10:00.000-07:002005-06-17T11:36:40.716-07:00

Way cool innovator:Eric von Hippel, Professor and Head of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Group at the MIT School of ManagementApart from having patented inventions, von Hippel also studies the economics of innovation - a fascinating subject. Check out his online book on democratizing innovation. In 1986, Von Hippel created a formula for the measurement of whether or not a company should

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1118667784223063632005-06-13T05:56:00.000-07:002005-06-13T06:03:04.226-07:00

Cool Resource of the Week:Market Research Guidelines - Why another mention about market research? Because it's important. And repetition is a great mnemonic. And the guidelines are very helpful in getting you started on finding out the demand for your product.Get-Going Goal:Think about your competition. Think you have none? Think about why that might be. Is there really a demand for the

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1118368400636546142005-06-09T18:47:00.000-07:002005-06-09T18:53:20.640-07:00

As an innovator running your own business, you will need to differentiate your product or company in the market. A particularly masterful maverick at this is Richard Branson of Virgin. Although I must admit that I was less than impressed by some of the stunts pulled on his reality show, I find his biography(Losing My Virginity) an engaging and inspiring read. Check it out!<br>

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1118027336885314132005-06-05T20:05:00.000-07:002005-06-23T08:43:15.533-07:00

I've decided to change the flavour of the blog a bit. Expect two new things - at the beginning of the week, I'll post a cool resource and an action item to help innovators get going. At the end of the week, I'll post a tidbit that influences thoughts about innovation more generally (things to ponder over the weekend, I suppose...).As always, I welcome comments, questions, and suggestions.Cool

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1117555282661669152005-05-31T08:57:00.000-07:002005-05-31T09:01:22.663-07:00

In this information age, access to knowledge is key to any innovator. I recently came across a very cool and highly useful web site, Soundview Executive Book Summaries, that provies a few pages of summaries for interesting new business books. Their resources are great overviews of key concepts. And the company has been around since 1978, which means that they're doing something right.

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1116689958682959252005-05-21T08:33:00.000-07:002005-05-21T08:40:44.380-07:00

It has been quite a while since I last posted. In the meantime, I had traveled to Geneva to attend a training program with the World Intellectual Property Organization.Although I work with innovators around the world, my Toronto location frequently directs a disproportionate amount of my attention to North American innovators. Thus, going to Europe for a training program in intellectual property

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1107122077196083142005-01-30T13:29:00.000-08:002005-01-30T13:54:37.196-08:00

I've just spent the last two days at the Young Inventors International "Inventing the Future" Conference in Toronto. About 150 attendees crossed our doorstep. Speakers included experts on intellectual property, early-stage financing, and technology transfer. As well, we were joined by some inspiring entrepreneurs - John Abele (Founder Chairman of Boston Scientific), Anthony Lacavera (CEO of

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1103669074874240442004-12-21T14:37:00.000-08:002004-12-21T14:44:34.873-08:00

One of the most common challenges encountered by budding innovators is securing early-stage financing. It seems as though early-stage investors have become more hesitant since that renowned and most recent "bubble burst." The bursting of the bubble is not necessarily an entirely negative phenomenon. As has be reiterated, the products with a demonstrable market and a strong business model can

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1101086710602178342004-11-21T16:11:00.000-08:002004-11-21T17:25:10.603-08:00

It seems as though a significant portion of innovation occurs at the margin - small changes that improve existing technologies or methods. The prevalence of incremental innovation is not surprising - and it may even be advantageous in the market. Encouraging customers to adopt "disruptive" technologies is much more difficult than encouraging the adoption of something familiar - but better. In

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070161.post-1100175445697178372004-11-11T04:17:00.000-08:002004-11-11T04:17:35.060-08:00

Why do I care so much about innovation? Because it makes the world go round! In innovation, there is potential for a better tomorrow - cures for cancer, preservation of the environment, creation of communities, an endlessness of possibilities. In my lifetime, I think that the most significant contribution I can make is to facilitate the task of bringing new ideas into the world. Of

Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14106779276633220920noreply@blogger.com0