Innovator Recognition
Our office works to recognize impactful NC State researchers and their work on a regional and national level.
Innovator & Entrepreneur of the Year
The Innovator of the Year and Dr. John S. Risley Entrepreneur of the Year awards are presented annually at the Celebration of Innovation event to faculty, staff, or student inventors or entrepreneurs that have demonstrated excellence in innovation or entrepreneurship.
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Impactful Wolfpack Innovators
National Academy of Inventors (NAI)
NAI Fellows
Election to National Academy of Inventor (NAI) Fellow status is the highest professional distinction accorded solely to academic inventors.
The Office of Research Commercialization works with select, prestigious NC State faculty inventors each year to prepare a nomination packet for submission under the NC State Chancellor’s signature.
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Nationally-recognized Researchers
NAI Senior Member
NAI Senior Members are active faculty inventors recognized for the realized or high-impact potential of their research innovations.
Self-nominations are permitted for Senior Member status and new nominations are accepted from October to December of each year.