NSF Engines: Piedmont Triad Regenerative Medicine Engine

Where Breakthrough Innovations Become Market-Ready Ventures

Founders' Journey 2025

Date: April 14 – 15
Time: 9 AM-6 PM; 9 AM-12 PM
Location: Winston Starts, 500 W. 5th St, Winston-Salem, NC 

founders journeyAre you a scientist, researcher, or early-stage founder looking to transform your idea into a venture-backed startup? The Founders’ Journey 2025 is designed to bridge the gap between research and commercialization, giving you the tools, connections, and strategies needed to launch and grow.

Thanks to support from the National Science Foundation, this two-day event is offered at no cost to attendees, ensuring that innovators have access to critical resources and mentorship without financial barriers.

The NSF-Piedmont Triad Regenerative Medicine Engine (PTRME) and The Builder Platform are hosting a two-day event to help scientists and startups turn research into real-world impact. Throughout the event, you’ll hear from 10 startup CEOs at various stages of their entrepreneurial journeys—offering firsthand insights into how they turned ideas into thriving businesses. These experienced founders and executives will share their successes, challenges, and key lessons to help guide your path.

This event offers a unique opportunity to move from IDEA to INVEST to IMPACT, accelerating innovation and funding opportunities. Limited spots available—register today!

Event Highlights

 Hands-on blueprint & whiteboard workshops to refine your business concept.
Learn from top industry leaders at the CEO Fireside Chat
(Virtual & In-Person) 
Connect with venture capitalists, partners & peers at the networking reception!

Preliminary Event Agenda

Day 1: April 14

Welcome / Registration

Introductions

Session 1: Market Risk / Assessment

Session 2: Intellectual Property (IP) vs. Know How vs. Trade Secrets

Lunch & Startup Presentations

Session 3: Building a Leadership Team

Session 4: Research and Development

Session 5: Regulatory and Pricing/Reimbursement

Session 6: Later Stage Founders

CEO Fireside Chat (Virtual Option) & Networking – Connect with faculty, investors & partners

Sign In and Breakfast Served

Presentations

Closings

Day 2: April 15

Register Now!

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