A robotic exoskeleton that allows paralyzed people to walk again, a simple urine test to detect early-stage breast cancer, and spider-inspired silk that may be stronger than steel – these are several of the promising startups being celebrated at the state Capitol tomorrow (May 10) for University of California’s Innovation Day.
The event highlights the latest innovations spawned by student work and backed by venture capital firms, as students meet with legislators to push for state funding of UC programs.
An expo of startup displays will be featured on the west steps of the Capitol from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Innovation Day underscores the critical role the university has historically played as the research arm of the state, spurring innovation and entrepreneurship.
UC produces more patents than any other university in the country, averaging five inventions a day. UC graduate students generate a new startup every two weeks. Nearly 1,000 startups have been formed from UC patents since 1980, supporting over 20,000 jobs and bringing in over $14 billion in annual revenue.
For more information on UC’s innovation, take a look at the 2015 Technology Commercialization Report: http://www.ucop.edu/innovation-alliances-services/_files/ott/genresourc…