I’m sometimes asked how we develop the strategic direction for the iBridge Network. First off, everything that we do must fit into our vision for the Network,

For people who are passionate about transforming today’s ideas and discoveries into tomorrow’s research, products and services, the iBridge Network is the innovation catalyst that provides a vibrant member community with resources to connect, collaborate and license their work.

This vision was developed back in 2006 by the team at the Kauffman Foundation that founded the iBridge Network. It has been refined over time, but the core of it has remained the same — we exist to help the process of transformation, regardless of where that transformation may lead. Sometimes it will be fabulous new products and services; and, sometimes it will result in furthering the science in a niche field that could be a component of tomorrow’s next discovery. Profit has never been a part of that vision, neither for us, or necessarily for every innovation that may be listed on the Network (even though that type of exchange sometimes definitely can happen for our member universities through the Network.)

There are lots of possible ways to realize the vision for the iBridge Network, so we have a wonderful Strategic Advisory Board that helps guide us in how we use our resources to achieve our vision. We also get suggestions and input from our now 72 member universities, and are always looking for input from our users. If you have suggestions, I’d love to hear them. You can either comment here on this post, or feel free to mail me at feedback@iBridgeNetwork.org. I’m looking forward to hearing from you!

I recently got an email from the National Council of Entrepreneurial Tech Transfer (NCET2) about the next webinar in their “Investing in International Innovation” series. So far they have explored innovation in Brazil, Sweden, Denmark and Italy, and now it’s the UK’s turn.

Among the topics to be covered:

• what is the UK innovation strategy as it relates to R&D labs at the federal and university level?
• how can US venture investors invest in the UK?
• what is the state of deal-flow?
• are entrepreneurs emerging with viable business models based on university research?
• what are the opportunities for early stage venture funding?
• what role do universities play in commercialization of R&D?
• and is there an equivalent of Bayh-Dole for the UK?

As we at the iBridge Network look at academic-originated innovation globally, I continue to be fascinated by the vast differences there can be in innovation policy and culture, and how that shapes the behaviors and organizational structures in those countries. Sessions such as this one help shed light on some of the nuances in each country.

This session will be Tuesday, March 17, 2009, 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET, and is free to attend (registration required).