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Your idea deserves more than a faculty meeting.
The Faculty Innovation Fellowship pairs five Lake Superior State University faculty and staff with our Entrepreneur in Residence (ERI) for a spring of working sessions every two weeks. Bring the idea. Leave with a path.
5
It doesn't have to be a patent.
If it could turn into something real, it counts.
A product or technology
Something you've built, or want to, that could reach a market.
A product or technology
Something you've built, or want to, that could reach a market.
A product or technology
Something you've built, or want to, that could reach a market.
One semester. Eight working sessions.
Refine the idea
Pressure-test it and find what's worth building.
Map commercialization
Licensing, spinout, partnership: pick the right path.
Work through tech transfer
The IP and university pieces LSSU hasn't worked through before.
Refine the idea
HWN features each fellow's work after selection.
How it works
Work through tech transfer
A short application.
Get selected
Five fellows are chosen.
Work with the ERI
1.5 hrs every other week, all spring.
Share the work
Your story, featured by HWN.
Share the work
Entrepreneur in Residence (ERI)
Vince is an innovation and venture capital leader with 30+ years of experience spanning engineering, entrepreneurship, venture investing, university commercialization, and startup ecosystem development.
As Entrepreneur‑in‑Residence at Headwaters North, Vince works with EUP entrepreneurs, connecting them with resources across Michigan’s private, public, and nonprofit sectors. His work at Headwaters supports founders, strengthens venture programs, and advances our regional innovation strategies.
Vince's career centers on connecting people, capital, technology, and opportunity to turn breakthrough ideas into companies that drive lasting economic impact.
Questions, answered
LSSU faculty and staff are eligible. Staff need permission from their supervisor.
Yes. A product, a research finding with commercial potential, or a new program like a pitch competition all count, and other ideas are welcome too. Contact the ERI to discuss yours.
One 1.5-hour session with the ERI every two weeks through spring semester, plus your own build time.
Yes. Selected fellows receive a $3,000 stipend, paid as an independent contractor of Headwaters North (not through LSSU).
Headwaters North shares fellows' stories and work. Promising ideas get connected to SmartZone resources for the next step.