On April 1st, Georgetown University celebrated a landmark moment in its growing innovation ecosystem with a full-day dedicated to advancing research, entrepreneurship, and industry collaboration. Hosted by Georgetown’s Office of Technology Commercialization (OTC) in partnership with Georgetown Entrepreneurship, the day’s programming highlighted the university’s commitment to translating bold ideas into real-world solutions.
The day began with the Innovation Awards Luncheon, where outstanding inventors were recognized for their contributions to scientific advancement and commercialization. The Crystal Awards, in particular, honored researchers who are successfully bridging the gap between discovery and application, turning transformative research into real-world impact.
In the afternoon, the energy shifted to the inaugural Research & Innovation Showcase, drawing nearly 450 participants from academia, industry, and the entrepreneurial community. Breakout exhibits and presentations featured advances in CAR-T therapies, natural killer (NK) cells, AI integration, 3D printing, and novel drug delivery platforms. The showcase included:
- A keynote by Elizabeth Dougherty on the evolving global innovation landscape
- A high-impact panel with representatives from Google, AstraZeneca, Siemens, and Lockheed Martin, focused on aligning research with market needs
- Startup and venture pitches from Georgetown faculty, students, and alumni-led companies, including KeifeRx, Darksaber Labs, NeuroAscend.AI, and Nyxara
Dr. Norman Beauchamp delivered closing remarks, emphasizing the importance of translating research into societal benefit and reaffirming Georgetown’s role in fostering equitable innovation.
“The Innovation Awards Luncheon and Research & Innovation Showcase reflected the very core of the mission shared by Georgetown Tech Ventures, the Office of Technology Commercialization, and Georgetown Entrepreneurship: catalyzing the intersection of research, entrepreneurship, and societal impact. Bringing together faculty spinouts, student ventures, and global industry leaders in one space affirmed that Georgetown’s innovation engine is more than simply up and running—it’s accelerating.” — Christon Hill, Program Manager, Georgetown Office of Technology Commercialization.
Among the attendees were Executives-in-Residence (EIRs) from BioHealth Innovation, Inc. (BHI)—Steve Wolpe, Luis Gutiérrez, and Albine Martin, and Jon Nelson and Mona Suliman from the BHI Analyst team.—who provide critical support to early-stage life sciences ventures through strategic advising and commercialization guidance.
This event also marked a key moment in the ongoing partnership between Georgetown University and BHI, through which BHI EIRs are working to help faculty spinouts and startups navigate challenges in regulatory strategy, funding, business development, and go-to-market planning. As part of its broader mission, BHI supports innovators with non-dilutive funding guidance, market research, pitch coaching, and expert mentorship, accelerating the translation of research into viable companies.
As the reception stretched well beyond its scheduled end, one thing became clear—Georgetown’s innovation community is not only thriving, but it’s gaining momentum with every connection made and idea shared.