Overview
An essential how-to guidebook for building new companies based on deep technology. Launching from the Lab provides a much-needed framework for new entrepreneurs who are founding companies based on ""deep technology""-groundbreaking innovations rising from new discoveries in fundamental research. Lita Nelsen and Maureen Stancik Boyce cover the steps to launch and fund such companies, beginning with emergence from the laboratory and acquiring intellectual property through the intensive research of customer needs, building a team, and raising capital. Designed to be read and then used chapter by chapter, this book covers every step of the entrepreneur's journey. From the lab, to the intensive research of customer needs, and through building a team and raising capital, this guidebook covers topics ranging from the importance of patents to forecasting financial data. The authors also include a special section on IP and dealing with tech transfer offices, for founders launching from university laboratories. Whether you're a first-time entrepreneur or a university researcher ready to commercialize your work, this book is an indispensable companion for turning breakthrough science into real-world impact.
Reviews
ENDORSEMENTS “A must-read for anyone aiming to turn breakthrough science into real-world impact. Drawing on deep experience, the authors provide practical guidance across all facets of company building—starting with the essential question: Are you ready to be an entrepreneur?” —Daniel Fischer, Cofounder and CEO, Tevard Biosciences “Fabulous book! It is practical and makes the reader think hard at a deeply personal level about what it takes to start and build a company. It’s a must-read for would-be entrepreneurs.” —Katharine Ku, Chief Licensing Advisor, Wilson Sonsini; former Executive Director of Stanford University’s Office of Technology Licensing “As close to perfect as I can imagine. Comprehensive, intelligently organized, well written—clear and concise. Buy two. One e-version to skim, and a hard copy to use as a reference guide for your lab or office.” —Eileen Shapiro, angel investor; strategist; author of How Corporate Truths Become Competitive Traps and Fad Surfing in the Boardroom “A valuable resource focused on practical and pragmatic issues for science-focused entrepreneurs. I wish I had this when I launched my own business and recommend it to anyone considering a deep-tech venture.” —Ryan Gillis, founder and CEO, Thiozen “This guide is an extraordinary resource for anyone seeking to commercialize disruptive innovation. These wise industry veterans provide a panoramic view of deep-tech company formation at every stage.” —Vibhu Sachdev, Senior Assistant Director, The Rockefeller University
Author Information
Lita Nelsen is the former director of the MIT Technology Licensing Office and a worldwide leader in technology transfer. She is a consultant to small biotech companies and a volunteer in the MIT Sandbox student entrepreneurship program. Maureen Stancik Boyce is a founding partner of Good Growth Capital, a venture capital company specializing in early-stage technology-based companies. She has been a mentor for MIT's Sandbox program since its inception.
