University of Central Florida Receives Grant Award from the i6 Challenge

This year, over $12M was available for a challenge rewarding communities that utilize a Proof of Concept Center model, such as that championed by the Deshpande Center, to accelerate technology led economic development in pursuit of a vibrant, innovative clean economy. i6 Green solicited applications that strengthen the linkages between economic development and environmental quality.

University of Central Florida, along with partners Technological Research and Development Authority and University of Florida, winning project 'Igniting Innovation (I2) Cleantech Acceleration Network' (I2 CAN) is a unique distributed proof-of-concept model that consists of a network of Florida-based universities, incubation networks, investors and industry resources that are coming together to accelerate the commercialization of innovative clean technology research into new technology companies or to license into existing firms. The I2 CAN will provide commercialization resources to entrepreneurs, scientists and established companies that are interested in commercializing clean technology research conducted within Florida's research institutions. A particular emphasis will be given to research areas in which Florida excels - solar energy, biofuels, green building technologies, and smart grid (energy storage and software/sensors).