Commercializing University Energy Innovation – A Case Study of OptiGen

Abstract

Universities are key sources of technological innovation, yet many promising discoveries never reach commercialization. This project examines the early-stage commercialization process through the case study of OptiGen, a power generation dispatch optimization tool developed by Dr. David Brown (Fuqua School of Business) and Dr. James Smith (Tuck School of Business). As part of the 2024 DOE EnergyTech University Prize, our team of four MEM|MBA students identified this technology, developed a business plan, and won the Grid Enhancing Technology award. While OptiGen has not yet been brought to market, this presentation details our approach to assessing its viability, evaluating deployment opportunities, and developing a successful pitch. By sharing insights from this experience, this project provides a framework for students interested in navigating the commercialization of university innovations.