What does it take to turn a patented technology into a real product? Find out by doing it!

The RBC IP Challenge is a 12-week, cohort-based commercialization program delivered by Fields Multiplier (the business incubator of the Field Institute) in partnership with RBC. Selected student teams are assigned real intellectual property developed by RBC and challenged to determine whether – and how – those ideas can become viable products or businesses.

This is a structured, venture-style process where teams will conduct real customer discovery, build and test business models and produce a validated commercialized pathway for their assigned IP.

Who should apply?

This program is designed for graduate students and senior undergraduates with strong quantitative or business backgrounds. Successful teams are interdisciplinary, combining skills in math, science, tech, engineering and business. You should apply if you’re motivated by applied problem-solving, are curious about entrepreneurship and commercialization, and can commit to a full 12-week program.

Note: All participants must sign a confidentiality and IP agreement as a condition of participation. (I think it’s good to include this because they should know, but it also makes it sound important and real).

How the program works

Teams are supported through a dedicated Fields Multiplier mentor and a weekly 90-minute workshop series covering ideation, customer discovery, business modelling, hypothesis testing and commercialization strategy.

The program runs in two phases:

Phase 1 – Opportunity Development: Teams analyze their assigned RBC IP, explore alternative applications and fields of use, then develop credible business models and commercialization pathways.

Phase 2 – Opportunity Validation: Teams test their most promising hypotheses through primary market research, including stakeholder and customer interviews, and refine their value proposition, target market and financial model. This phase also includes technical validation through proof-of-concept development and modelling.

The Prize

Teams that produce the strongest commercialization plans will win a cash prize, with an opportunity to see their work go on to inform real start-up development or licencing opportunities with RBC.

Apply!
Details forthcoming