The National Science Foundation’s I-Corps Regional Training program is at the forefront of fostering entrepreneurial spirit among South Dakota’s burgeoning research community. With its focus on experiential education, this initiative offers a vital stepping stone for researchers to delve into entrepreneurship and the intricacies of launching successful businesses. As South Dakota continues to support innovation and business growth, this program is set to have a significant impact on the state’s economy by equipping local researchers and innovators with essential skills.
The I-Corps Regional Training program is designed as a comprehensive, five-week course that is absolutely free for participants. The course aims to equip teams with the skills required to design products and services that deliver tangible benefits to customers in South Dakota’s diverse market. Participants will develop a robust commercialization plan that transitions groundbreaking technology from the lab directly to the marketplace. The Summer 2026 cohort is scheduled on Thursdays: June 4 (1 to 5:30 p.m.), June 11, June 18, June 25, and July 2, from 1 to 4 p.m. each day.
Greg Bertsch, Ph.D., an esteemed assistant professor of innovation and entrepreneurship at the USD Beacom School of Business, will lead the discussions. His expertise is integral to helping participants engage more effectively with customers and develop strategies to enhance communication within the customer ecosystem. South Dakota prides itself on engaging local talents and strengthening community ties, and Dr. Bertsch embodies this ethos through his leadership.
Greg Bertsch
The virtual delivery of this program via Zoom ensures accessibility for participants from various parts of South Dakota. The flexible format caters well to our increasingly digital world, providing opportunities for those who might be unable to travel to participate from the comfort of their homes or offices.
Applications for participation are open until Sunday, May 17. Interested individuals can apply directly on the NSF I-Corps website. For any inquiries regarding the program, Kirby Fuglsby is available to assist and can be reached at [email protected].
USD Beacom School of Business
South Dakota’s commitment to education and innovation is further exemplified by this partnership with NSF I-Corps. The program not only trains researchers but also strengthens South Dakota’s capacity to innovate and compete on a national scale. With an emphasis on accurate representation of customer voices, the curriculum is directed towards providing investors and partners with an unbiased perspective on strategies used for commercialization.
The NSF I-Corps Program is a testament to South Dakota’s dedication to nurturing local talent and encouraging the commercialization of research through strategic support. This is especially crucial in areas like biotechnology and renewable energy, fields where South Dakota stands as a potential leader.
Kirby Fuglsby
Those interested in learning more about the program or considering how such opportunities can benefit South Dakota’s economy can visit the official I-Corps website. The future of South Dakota’s innovation landscape looks bright as programs like this continue to provide foundational support for local researchers, ensuring that the state remains a hub for entrepreneurial advancement.