Tulane Innovation Institute
Established in 2022, the Tulane University Innovation Institute is a service-oriented organization dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs within the university and the surrounding community create and grow startup companies in New Orleans, the Gulf South and beyond. We also support innovators and researchers at Tulane University in transforming their research into marketable products and services, creating impact through spinout formation and industry partnerships.
We aim to build founders and companies that drive economic growth and strengthen our community. We equip startups, researchers and founders with the funding, mentorship, and resources they need to thrive.
Since our launch, over 1,200 individuals have participated in our programs and we have invested more than $1.6 million in Tulane and New Orleans innovators and inventors through Tulane Ventures, the Provost’s Proof of Concept Fund, Innovation Awards and our signature pitch competitions. Our staff and the volunteer-led Green Wave Innovation Network have provided extensive expert mentorship. By offering funding and support mechanisms to early-stage innovation and ventures, we are launching the next generation of companies in New Orleans and creating a stronger, more prosperous future for our city, creating the next-generation of impactful solutions to society’s most pressing challenges.
Why are donations necessary?
Your contributions will support the ongoing success and growth of the Tulane Innovation Institute, which directly funds innovators, startups, and Tulane Innovation Institute programs. Your contributions enable us to improve our programs, fund technology development and offer valuable resources and mentorship to local entrepreneurs. As we strive to expand our reach and engage more participants, innovators and founders, your generosity is essential to making a meaningful impact in our community.
Donations will help fund #GiveGreen gifts will be used to continue to fund our programming including:
The Provost’s Proof of Concept program offers grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 to Tulane innovators for transforming ideas into market-ready solutions. Your support contributes to establishing a consistent funding stream for transformative research. The Startup Clinic connects student volunteers who offer pro-bono hands-on support in business strategy, technology and marketing to local entrepreneurs and startups. The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) equips high school students with the skills and confidence to launch real businesses. Thirty students from 14 New Orleans schools are transforming ideas into real companies by conducting market research, writing business plans and pitching to investors.