Chalmers Innovation Office - Application for VFT funding

Purpose and goal

The goal of VFT is to support the utilization of research from the universities covered by Innovation Office Väst* "by validating ideas with the potential to generate goods/services that contribute to sustainable growth and social benefit." VFT and the processes that developed over time are important tools for utilization of knowledge. Both in terms of commercial and non-commercial projects and with knowledge assets from both researchers and students. *) University of Borås, Chalmers, University of Halmstad, University of Jönköping, University of Skövde and University Väst

Expected results and effects

In our application the desired effect was "verified ideas (market, technology, IP) with an idea carrier who has the drive and inner confidence to drive the project forward. We also want to ensure that customers think we provide interesting and well-reviewed innovations with clear potential ." This is fulfilled and the work has developed the individual projects, how the universities within Innovationskontor Väst work together and with other universities in Sweden. We had a vision of validating 80+ projects a year which is almost met, which we are happy with considering the pandemic.

Planned approach and implementation

From the application: "To support researchers, staff and students to develop and validate their ideas, we follow a comprehensive process." The initial process turned out to be a good starting point that has developed over time in a way that increased the quality of the collaboration within Innovation Office Väst and of course the validations. We discuss projects locally as well as in the whole group and this means that we can find solutions outside our own university. We have also had a fruitful dialogue nationally at experience meetings and at the VFT+ process.