8:30 am - 9:00 am

Breakfast

9:00 am - 10:15 am

Presentations: Evolving Directions in Technology Transfer - Role in Industry Liaison and Economic Development

Confirmed Speakers:

Melba Kurman, President and Founder, Triple Helix Innovation

Melba Kurman, the president and founder of Triple Helix Innovation, is a writer, analyst, veteran marketer and innovation strategist. She has over 17 years of first-hand experience in industry product development and university technology transfer at Microsoft and Cornell University. She in an expert in forward-thinking business strategies for emerging university technologies and university IP management. In addition to university innovation strategy, Melba writes about the social, economic and intellectual property potential (and challenges) of emerging technologies, most notably 3D printing.

Rick Tofani, Vice President, New Ventures, Alberta Innovates

Rick Tofani is currently leading the Regional Networks Group in the Business Development division of Tech Futures  The Division is focused on accelerating the adoption of technology and innovation, and the growth and investment readiness of businesses in Alberta. Regional Networks is helping develop a culture of collaboration and interdependence among Alberta’s publicly funded technology transfer, applied research, economic development agencies, industry associations and entrepreneurs, as well as facilitating the commercialization of technology belonging to Tech Futures and other partners and companies in Alberta.  Rick is also responsible for pursuing strategic partnerships with industrial organizations through collaborations with the other Innovates Corporations and AET's Advanced Technologies Industry Division.

10:15 am - 10:45 am

Break

10:45 am - 12:00 pm

Breakout Discussions (Topics to be preselected by Attendees)

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Networking Lunch